Sneakers slide across the court, with quick paces back and forth. Fingers draw across handles, grips tightening as seconds pass. A fast drawback builds anticipation on the opposing side as a glare gets sent across the court. Tension eases, but speed doesn’t as the birdie is hit, flying to the other side. A wave of cheer erupts; smiles rush from face to face as Poly wins another point.
Currently boasting a 7-5 record, the Poly badminton team has found success early on. After what was supposed to be a “rebuilding season” the previous year, the team has definitely been on the come-up. With players of all levels of experience, from seniors to freshmen, the team has weapons all around the court.
“The Poly badminton team has brought together a unique group of student-athletes this year that are all super eager to learn and strengthen their skills,” shared Coach Natasha Llanto-Kharbanova ‘24, a former Poly varsity badminton player.
The hardest part about improving from a rebuilding season is identifying clear strengths and weaknesses to build upon. In this case, the team benefits from a very successful coaching staff that does a great job motivating their players to chase the best. After a rebuilding season, they need to bring hope up and build a status quo to expect greatness. The coaches motivate the players through their speeches and fun ways to practice; for example, Poly vs. Poly practice where the loser partakes in extra conditioning.
Junior Taylor Yong said, “Practice is something everyone looks forward to at the end of the day. Although the coaches and conditioning can be harsh, they inspire us to work harder.”
The weaknesses that the team can improve on, however, come in the form of enjoying the process more and not just the finished result.
Coach Llanto-Kharbanova added, “Of course, I hope that the team will continue honing their skills until the end of the season, but I also really want everyone to start having more fun during practice and matches.”
Another main focus for the team is changing the perception of badminton from “just another Poly sport.” Since badminton isn’t one of the main high school sports like football, basketball, soccer, etc., it’s harder to rack in attendance for their games. While the team doesn’t need packed crowds, they hope for a level of attendance that can elevate the players and bring further success.
While the team has had a successful season on paper, it isn’t all clear skies for the team. Valuable players such as senior Ollie Arteaga-Johnson are leaving the team next year, so younger talent will have to step up. Luckily, through experienced coaches who motivate the team, it’s clear that success has become the standard, and the team remains strong and unified. With such momentum, we are all very excited to see where the team goes next.