Badminton Seniors Say Farewell

Photo from Jingyu Li

The badminton season is ending with many advancing towards the NCS tournament, and they celebrated their senior night on Apr. 30. The seniors believed that it was a successful season, and they have had a good run, though some are preparing for NCS after senior night.

Hansini Chalagalla (12) stated, “This season was really fun, and I enjoyed it more by stressing less and appreciating the experience.”

Jingyu Li (12), one of badminton’s captains, explained, “The season was fun because of my partner Mentsh. We won some of the games and we beat Washington twice and Newark once. Especially during senior night, when everyone was putting effort into building boxes and making posters.”

Li started badminton when her cousin introduced her to it, and her passion for the sport was increased by her older friends, like Angela and Baby. Her older brother also played the sport in high school.

Tanvi Sheth (12) claimed that badminton became more than just a sport for her, and it is something that she looks forward to during the season.

Sheth elaborated, “As a senior and captain, I felt more responsible for helping create a positive environment for everyone.”

Li expressed however that however much the captains try to lead the team towards the right direction, some ignored their instructions and recommendations during warm-ups and practices. After tournaments, as a team, everyone would go get Korean food or get Boba after practice.

Sheth’s biggest accomplishment was making her NCS all 3 years, and Li is incredibly proud of getting 3rd place in MVALS and advancing to NCS this year.

Sheth shares some advice: “I would tell them [underclassmen] to enjoy every moment because the season goes by really fast. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, work hard, and make  connections with your teammates.”

“I would tell my younger underclassmen tofocus more on the next point instead of how far apart the scores are listen to instructions, and also good luck,” commented Li

Chalagalla regretted not going to enough tournaments during her freshman and sophomore years, and heavily encouraged her underclassmen to do so.

Li finalized, “A special shout-out to my two coaches, Teng and Jesse, for taking their time off work and their day to train us and play with us. Especially Teng being at school from 7AM to 9PM everyday and still going out with us. Jesse, who gives me a ride after games before becoming a coach, and bringing food. They both train us during open gym and give suggestions for all of us.”