The girls badminton team at North High is off to a promising start this season, showing improved performance with a stronger sense of unity and team effort. Competing in conference two, the team has demonstrated both competitive growth and a renewed commitment to teamwork, setting a positive and optimistic tone for the remainder of the season.
Under the guidance of coach Zak, the team has shown considerable progress compared to last year, with returning players bringing experience and newer athletes stepping into new roles, as evident both in practice and during matches.
“The girls badminton team is off to a great start,” coach Zak said. “Many of the girls came back this season much stronger than last year. Our singles players, led by freshman phenom Kaitlyn Feng, are particularly strong, winning 15 out of 18 matches so far.”
According to players, one of the most noticeable differences this season has been a greater level of commitment and focus during practices.
“Compared to last year, we’ve been a lot more serious about practice and committing to being there,” returning starter Kendall Aufenanger said. “It’s clear we’ve improved because of it, especially during games.”
This increased dedication has translated directly into stronger performances during games. Matches have become more intense, with many extending into three sets, which tests players’ physical and mental strength.
“I’m most proud of our team’s ability to stay resilient despite the challenges of a mental game,” captain Sydney Ng said. “There are many times where the doubles and singles have played to three sets, but we stay focused on just winning the next point.”
Beyond performance however, one of the most significant changes this season has been the team’s evolving dynamic. Players and captains emphasize that the environment has become more supportive, contributing to both individual and collective success.
“The acts of inclusivity and encouragement have been much more prevalent this year,” captain Jackie Chen said. “I don’t find many barriers between grades or positions that make it hard for one player to talk to another, and that unifies the team a lot better.”
This sense of connection has helped foster stronger relationships among teammates, which makes the team more cohesive but also more enjoyable to be a part of. Vanessa, a starter, noted that the team has developed noticeably better chemistry this season, with stronger relationships forming between players compared to last year.
However, many team members still acknowledge that there is still room for growth, particularly in maintaining a consistently positive environment. Teammates sometimes need to focus more on supporting one another rather than directing frustrations at one another. Additionally, increased consistency from managers would further strengthen the team’s overall structure.
Even with these areas for improvement, the team’s progress is abundantly clear. Players are pushing each other to improve by maintaining a healthy balance of competition and encouragement.
Coach Zak also highlighted the team’s work ethic as a key factor to its success.
“I am also happy with how the team practices,” coach Zak said. “They take practice seriously and constantly strive to move up or into the starting lineup. Hopefully we can continue our success through the second half of the season.”
As the season continues, the team hopes to build on its early momentum. For now, the team’s combination of resilience, dedication, and growing chemistry has prepared players to face increasingly intense challenges together.
