Looking for an indoor sports venue in Arras? The sports hall at Collège François Mitterrand, located at 50 rue Abbée Lemire Prolongée, in the southern part of Arras, is a prominent spot for indoor sports enthusiasts. With its impressive synthetic surface measuring 44 meters in length and 22 meters in width, this multi-purpose sports complex has become a favorite among the local sports community. It is especially known for hosting the popular Badminton Club Arras, a well-established club with a storied history, as well as providing facilities for gymnastics and various other sports.
But it’s not just the indoor facilities that draw people to this venue. Surrounding the sports hall, there are outdoor spaces equipped for soccer, basketball, and handball, making it a versatile location suitable for a wide range of activities. The outdoor handball court, with its durable concrete surface, offers an alternative for those who prefer playing sports in the open air. This blend of indoor and outdoor facilities means that athletes of all kinds can find the right space to practice, whether they are looking to refine their skills or simply enjoy a casual game with friends.
History and Features of the François Mitterrand Multi-Sports Hall
Named after the former French President François Mitterrand, the sports hall reflects the city’s commitment to promoting athletic activities for all ages. Over the years, it has become not just a sports venue but a community hub, where local events and tournaments take place, contributing to the vibrant sports culture of Arras. In fact, many local athletes who have gone on to compete at regional and national levels have had their early training sessions in this very hall, highlighting its importance as a nurturing ground for future talents.
In addition to its synthetic flooring designed to accommodate various indoor sports, the complex provides three types of equipment catering to a range of sporting activities. The versatility of the space means it can be adapted for different events, from local school competitions to high-level club tournaments. This adaptability is one of the reasons why the venue is so popular within the sports community of Arras and beyond.
Location of the François Mitterrand Multi-Sports Hall
The sports complex is conveniently situated close to the college that shares its name, nestled in the “cul de sac” street, providing a quiet environment ideal for sporting activities. As shown on the map below, it’s easy to locate for newcomers to the area:
If you’re arriving from Beaurains, simply head towards the Match shopping center. Alternatively, those coming from the university or the Elie Desbin swimming pool can take avenue Fernand Lobbedez, a nearby street located within the residential housing estates. While there isn’t a dedicated parking lot directly adjacent to the François Mitterrand sports hall, access is generally easy. Public transportation is also an option, with Bus D1 offering convenient access to the venue.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the complex features well-maintained facilities that complement the indoor courts. The concrete handball court, visible in the photo below, is particularly popular for those seeking a more rugged, open-air experience :
Spotlight on Arras Badminton Club
Badminton holds a special place in the heart of Arras’s sports scene, and the Badminton Club Arras is undoubtedly one of the most vibrant and active clubs in the city. Established in 1980, the club has since grown both in membership and reputation, now recognized as one of the top-tier badminton clubs in the region. The club’s ambitions are clear: it aims to reach the top 12 in the national championship, driven by a strategy of high-level recruitment and rigorous training programs. For newcomers, it’s not only a fantastic way to get started with the sport, but also an excellent opportunity for those with more experience to hone their skills and aim for competitive play.
At the Collège François Mitterrand hall, the badminton club welcomes both adults and youngsters to practice and compete. Training sessions are held from 6:00 pm to 9:45 pm, with individual play for youngsters on 2 courts from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Beyond formal training, the sports hall offers seven badminton courts for free play on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, providing ample opportunities for members and casual players alike to enjoy the sport. The club’s flexible approach ensures that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re pursuing badminton recreationally or preparing for high-level competition.
In addition to its primary location at the François Mitterrand hall, the club also utilizes the Salle Giraudon (9 avenue du Maréchal Leclerc, near the bus station) from Monday to Friday, further expanding the opportunities for practice. For those looking for more free play, the Salle du Collège Curie (62 rue de Saint Quentin) is available on Thursdays. Membership is accessible, with a leisure license costing €105, making it an attractive option for individuals who wish to engage in regular badminton practice.
Additional Activities and Community Impact
While badminton is the star attraction at the François Mitterrand sports hall, the complex’s outdoor facilities for soccer, basketball, and handball make it a multi-functional venue that caters to a variety of athletic pursuits. Schools in the area frequently use the complex for physical education classes, fostering a love for sports among the younger generation. Local tournaments and community events are often held here, emphasizing the role of the sports hall as not just a place for physical activity, but as a communal gathering spot where the spirit of competition and camaraderie flourishes.
Overall, the François Mitterrand sports hall stands as a beacon of athleticism, community, and perseverance in Arras. Whether you’re an aspiring athlete, a parent looking for extracurricular activities for your children, or simply someone wanting to stay active, this complex offers a welcoming environment where sports and community come together.
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