The Poly badminton team went into 2024 – labeled as a “rebuild” season by the coaches – with mixed expectations and received mixed results, but the Panthers hope to find their groove in the few games that remain. So far, the team has a losing, but not lopsided, record with five wins and six losses. With four games left before the Montview League preliminary matches on April 23, 24, 25 and 26, there’s still time for the Panthers to make a racket as they fight their way to the finals. This team, which is nearly two-thirds freshman and has only one graduating player, has the potential to excel in the future.
In this rebuilding season, the co-ed team has faced some obstacles recently, losing two out of their last three games by scores of 0-21 on April 12, and 9-12 on April 15. These losses can be attributed, in part, to one overarching issue.
“The biggest problem within the program this year has been attendance,” said sophomore Jamie Hsieh.
The program’s already limited size has been hurt by scheduling conflicts and absences from practices and important matches.
“Our passionate coaches are working hard to overcome this challenge by promoting a strong bond within the team and a sense of camaraderie despite the dwindling numbers,” said Hsieh.
The three-person coaching staff is headed by former badminton professional and two-time United States Olympic coach Alistair Casey.
One upside of the smaller team size is that it has allowed players to be more unified by their tight-knit support of each other and their collective drive to succeed. Hsieh also credited the four captains with supporting the team.
“I would like to highlight their direction in motivating us and fostering a positive team environment,” Hsieh said.
This positivity was on full display during the squad’s match against Bassett High School on Wed., April 17. This match was celebrated as senior night for the team’s only senior, Natasha Llanto-Kharbanova, who was commended by her teammates for being an unwavering leader and inspiring captain. A 15-6 victory capped off this celebratory night and, hopefully, has put the Panthers on a winning trajectory.
Poly looks to carry the momentum from senior night into the final few matches. Yet, no matter the results of those matches, this season, which was deemed a rebuilding period, has already surpassed last year’s record of 2-7. Despite the team’s young roster, they have already built an impressive foundation and have left fans excited for the future of Poly badminton.
