By FARRAH PARK and SAMANTHA SCHROEDER
The varsity boys badminton team maintained their record as undefeated for a sixth season in a row.
The team, consisting of a 14-player roster plus a manager, strove to keep single digit winning scores all season. There was an engaging bond among the players. Co-captain and senior Chris Kim said, “I think the chemistry is very good, we’re really nice to each other and the team mixes well together.”
Chris and co-captain Howard Zhang help carry the team with their pep talks and motivational words. Chris said, “There are times when the lower players aren’t doing so well, and so I give them tips during games.”
Fans and spectators also support the hard work of the badminton team. Loyal fan, sport supervisor and middle school nurse Regina Rosenfeld said, “Jericho always wins. I love watching them. They’re amazing.”
After a recent match when the boys won in single digits, team manager Judy L. expressed how incredibly proud she was of the team. She said, “We did amazing. Everyone played their best and their hardest. And from our scores, you can see everyone tried their best.”
During a game, there are multiple courts with doubles and singles matches. While the players are trying to get their win, other teammates keep track of the score and record it. Each game is played up to 21 points.
Although some teams are harder to beat than others, Jericho’s players practice diligently to prepare, strategizing different methods. Coach and middle school teacher Mr. Burkowsky said, “Most of the scores were in the single digits as well. They are going to keep up this performance for all future games.”
Co-captain Howard said, “I just want to play my best and not worry about the outcome; just make sure I don’t make easy mistakes and make my opponents work for my points.”
After winning the Nassau Suffolk Tournament, the badminton team is heading to the Long Island Championship where they will face the Suffolk county champs this upcoming June since Suffolk County has their season in the spring.