Smash Champs Badminton & LAN Center Tour: From Empty Box to Grand Opening

The Genesis of Smash Champs

• 💡 The initial vision for Smash Champs was a single unit combining check-in, concessions, and a pro shop, but it evolved into a much larger, premium space.
• 🔑 The pro shop is expansive, designed to feel welcoming and premium, which has positively impacted sales.
• 🛠️ Services offered include shoe and racket rentals, as well as racket restringing, with advice on string replacement frequency.

Technology Integration and Access Control

• 💳 Members use RFID wristbands for check-in, with different colors for staff verification.
• 🔒 Ubiquiti NVRs and security cameras monitor the facility, integrated with club automation software for door access control.
• 🚪 Premium members gain 24/7 access to specific areas, with access dynamically adjusted for events like LAN gaming.

Badminton Court Features and Construction

• 🏸 The badminton courts feature multi-layer sport flooring for bounce and grip, with a vapor barrier, rubber pucks, plywood layers, and a cushion layer.
• 🔊 Acoustic treatments and specialized HVAC systems with duct socks were implemented to manage reverb and airflow without creating drafts.
• 🔌 Power and networking infrastructure is extensive, with Cat 6A network connections and 120V outlets pre-run between courts for future technology like automated scorekeeping.
• 🤝 Credit is given to Caliber Flooring Systems and Victor for their work on the sport floors, with Victor being BWF certified and able to meet timelines.

Gaming and Entertainment Spaces

• 💻 The Whale Lan gaming space is designed for large events, featuring robust power (250V 50A connectors) and high-speed networking (10Gb Cat 6A and 25Gb fiber optic).
• 🎮 The members lounge includes amenities like an air hockey table, pool table, and a Super Chexx game, intended for premium members.
• 🕹️ A DIY arcade cabinet and a server room with Ubiquiti RGB, battery backup, and NVRs for security and networking are also present.

Facility Operations and Future Plans

• 🏢 The facility faced challenges obtaining permits from the city, requiring significant effort and collaboration with city officials.
• 🏋️ A gym designed with input from Luke Lafrenier of Float Plane offers options for cardio and free weights, rated 9/10 by Badminton Insight.
• 🚗 Parking was secured through a deal with neighboring businesses, offering free gym memberships in exchange for access to their unused parking stalls.
• 🤖 The sponsor Narwhal is highlighted for its Flow vacuum and mopping system, with potential applications for cleaning tasks within the facility.
• 📦 Significant inventory of badminton shuttlecocks is being stored due to supply chain inconsistencies, necessitating pallet racking.
• 🎯 Future plans include automated scorekeeping and training insights using machine vision and RFID scanners in partnership with Playite and ZCAM.