In a tight finish to the season, the women's badminton team narrowly missed capturing the South Coast Conference title, placing second to the eventual champions, Pasadena City College, in two dramatic matches.

After a hard fought 12-9 and 11-10 defeat to Pasadena City College on March 21st and 28th, the Olympians are now focused on the upcoming tournament. Head Coach June Andrews is confident where the team is right now, saying, "We are playing well and right where we need to be" as they prepare for the competition, which begins on Friday, May 2nd, at the Manhattan Beach Badminton Club.

The team will be led by top players Mylene Keophaseut, Emily Chindamay, and Christina Nguyen. This dynamic trio often sets the tone for the match, and their energy is contagious throughout the team. Often, if they are playing well - the rest of the team follows suit. 

Andrews also praises the play of Tien Nguyen, who plays in the number 5 slot, as the season's biggest surprise. “Her progress and improvement have been impressive. After a few tough losses to Pasadena City College, she has stepped up with her confidence in her game and battled out a win vs. San Diego City College.”

There is also a critical emphasis on securing doubles points during practice. The coaching staff wants to make sure the tandems are practicing strategies in attacking the opponents weaknesses. 

As the team moves into tournament play, there is an increased focus on conditioning and executing the proper plays. This team has the capability of beating anyone in the state, as long as they play to their full potential, be in the best shape possible, and stay mentally focused the entire match. The team motto for the rest of the season is “playing loose and free.”

WHAT'S NEXT
South Coast Conference Championships 
Friday, May 2, 2025 @ Manhattan Beach Badminton Club 
Time: TBA