A playful headline that perfectly captures what the FINIDR Company League is all about. For some, it might be a riddle (but you’ll find the real one in the attachment), but given the sports played in our league, it’s clear that we’re talking about badminton and bowling. I’m glad that our regular participants joined in again this year, and that the group has grown to include some new faces. Are you among them?
Every Wednesday afternoon, the Activity4Fun centre came alive again with several of my colleagues from our printing plant, whether from FINIDR A or B. In mid-January, another season of our company league kicked off here.
What makes the league special?
It’s not just about the games; it’s also about the atmosphere, which combines a relaxed vibe, friendship, and healthy competition. There’s no need to worry. We play to have fun and get a little exercise at the same time. For some of us, it even serves as a warm-up before the night shift.
And the old proverbs hold true: the league is what we all make of it. It’s not about individuals, but about us – in this case, the Finidr sports team. And so far, it’s working great!
More experienced players are happy to offer advice or share their tips. And that’s what it’s all about. Not the trophy at the end (which is, of course, a nice bonus), but the fact that you’re improving, and, by the end of the season, you can see the progress you’ve made—which gives you a great sense of accomplishment.
Play whenever you can. No pressure.
Our league isn’t a commitment where you “sign up and have to show up every Wednesday.” Definitely not. We’d love it if you came regularly, but we know full well that kids, after-school activities, work, and shifts all come into play. And that can really throw a wrench in your schedule.
Even if you only come a few times, it’s worth it. Whether you want to compete or just “unwind” and spend an active afternoon with colleagues, there’s something for everyone here.
A Small Change, More Fun
This year, we made a slight tweak to our traditional competition. Throughout the season, we organized smaller tournaments in both badminton and bowling, which breathed new life into the established system and gave other players a chance to shine.
It was no longer just about rewarding the most persistent players who accumulate points over the long term. “Sprinters” in top form also got their chance to shine, taking home small sweet prizes from the tournaments.
What’s next?
The final rounds took place at the end of March, and that wraps up this year’s season. We’ll introduce the champions and medallists in the next issue of the newsletter.
Finally, I’d like to thank everyone who signed up for this year’s season, whether they’re returning participants or newcomers. Thank you!
Vlaďka, you’ve become a real mainstay of our bowling team over the past few years.
I’ve noticed that you’ve been gradually improving. Do you see progress in yourself, too? What’s behind it? Do you practice outside of the league, is it the company league, or is it sometimes just a matter of luck?
Sometimes we go bowling with family or friends. But during the year, I have plenty of other activities, like running, hiking, and nature walks. I treat the bowling league as a winter activity.
I really am gradually getting better, but it’s also about luck. I try to throw the same way every time, but it always turns out differently (laughs). Maybe I need a few more years of practice.
In your first year, you probably didn’t even win a single match, but now you’re fighting for a spot on the overall podium. It must feel pretty good. Is your motivation to take home a trophy, or does the joy of playing and the chance to meet up with teammates elsewhere still take precedence? And the trophy would just be the icing on the cake…
The first year was probably the toughest. I was new among players who already had experience from previous years and were doing really well. This year, I’ve also started to do pretty well. It’s a nice feeling, but I don’t think I’ll last long in those higher spots (laughs). I’d love to take home a trophy someday—at least for third place for now. Until I manage that, I’ll just enjoy the game and the nice get-togethers with my colleagues.
So why did you sign up for the company league in the first place?
I like trying new things, and I usually meet some great people along the way. And if I enjoy it, I’ll stick with it.
Richi, you dominated the entire badminton season last year. What about you and the corporate league? Why did you decide to participate for the first time, and again this year?
I signed up for the league for the first time mainly because I love sports and staying active, and at the same time, it was a great opportunity to get to know colleagues from other departments beyond just our usual work collaboration. I really enjoyed last year’s season, not just because I managed to win and take home the trophy, but mainly because of the atmosphere and the people. That’s why it felt natural for me to join again this year and continue this pleasant company tradition. It’s like weekly team building (he smiles).
Do you plan to defend your title again this year?
Of course, it would be nice to build on last year’s result, but I’m mainly treating it as a hobby this year—an opportunity to get some exercise and clear my head after work. The competition is strong again this year, and every match is a little different, which is what makes it interesting. But the most important thing for me is that we get regular exercise and spend time together outside of work.
And how would you rate your performance so far this season? Are you satisfied with how you’ve played, or do you see room for improvement? I also know that you’re a tennis player. Is playing badminton this winter serving as preparation for the tennis season?
So far, I view my performance this year positively, but there’s always room for improvement (he smiles). Every match is different—sometimes we play mixed doubles, where teamwork and tactics are key, and other times it’s a men’s battle full of hard rallies and exchanges. You never know exactly what to expect, and that’s what makes it fun. It’s true that I’ve been playing tennis for a long time, and badminton is definitely a great way for me to stay in shape during the winter. Even though they’re different sports, they share the use of a racket, quick reflexes, and movement, so I see it as a nice change of pace in the winter.
