The girls badminton team is deep into their season, facing tough competition and high expectations. The team’s steady improvement and tight-knit culture is defining this year’s story.
Led by head coach Joe Hames, now in his 25th year, the program continues to be one of the most consistent in the region.
“We’ve got a strong conference,” Hames said. “Every team we face is competitive. Bolingbrook was just added, and they’ve already brought a lot of talent.”
Despite the tough matchups, Hames remains focused on growth over results.
“We tell the kids: we want you to peak at the end of the season at conference and sectionals,” Hames said. “That’s when it counts.”
The team doesn’t make cuts, which allows students of all experience levels to join. Many players have little athletic background when they first start, but by the end of the season, they’ve made huge strides.
“That’s one of my favorite parts of coaching,” Hames said. “Seeing a player go from never playing a sport to winning a match or making a great shot. Those moments are huge.”
Senior Willa Wu, a four-year player, has been a major contributor both on and off the court.
“I’ve been playing since I was eight,” Wu said. “This year, I’m really trying to improve my smashes from the back court.”
Like many players, Wu is focused on both the physical and mental side of the game.
“In singles, if you don’t get back to the middle of the court after a shot, you’re in trouble,” Wu said. “Fixing that just takes a lot of practice.”
Wu also helps guide newer teammates during matches.
“I’ll give pointers in-game if I’ve watched someone long enough. It helps to see things from the outside.”
Senior, Jennifer Oceguera, also brings four years of varsity experience. She admits it hasn’t always been easy.
“We’ve played against some really good teams. Losing over and over—it gets to you,” Oceguera said. “But I’ve improved every year. That’s what keeps me going.”
Oceguera emphasizes positivity and team support.
“I always make sure to talk to teammates after matches—win or lose—and keep things encouraging. A high five goes a long way,” she said.
Junior Katharine Budny, in her second year on the team, is aiming to climb the roster.
“My goal is just to move up and stay consistent,” Budny said. “Being part of this team has helped me open up and get more involved.”
The intense match schedule can be mentally and physically draining, especially as many players juggle school, extracurriculars, and other commitments.
“The season is short but packed,” Hames said. “These kids work hard in the classroom and on the court. It’s a grind.”
Still, morale remains high.
“We play music during practice, there’s lots of energy and laughter—it’s one of the best parts of the day,” Hames said.
That positive atmosphere has helped create memorable moments, including a recent team win over Romeoville.
“Our varsity players played their best badminton of the season,” Hames said. “Alicia Perez lost her first game, came back to win the next two. That’s the kind of grit we love to see.”
As the season heads toward sectionals, the team continues to focus on improvement and supporting each other. And for those considering joining next year, the advice is simple.
“Just do it,” Budny said. “It’s fun, it’s a good way to make friends, and it’s a great experience.”