South’s Badminton team has pushed their way to state, qualifying at section- als between six schools, winning first and second place in singles and doubles, soph- omore Sanju Purayil, varsity Badminton player said.

Representing South’s Varsity Badmin- ton team, Seniors Saya Patel and Keya Patel, juniors Kate
Haravon, Deana Chin, Rayya Patel, and sophomore Sanju Purayil, all participated at this year’s Illinois High School Association
State badminton tournament.

The team placed 17th overall, according to South’s Booster Club. In singles, Haravon won against Glenbard East and Joliet, Hara-
von said. In doubles, Saya and Keya had an impressive three wins against Highland Park, Hoffman Estates, and Metea Valley. Each player finished up with over 20 wins in total at the end of the season.

“This was a big moment for the badmin- ton team as all who played in the Sectionals qualified for state,” Haravon said. “Usually we have one or two players qualify, but to have everybody [from Sectionals] go was an amazing accomplishment.”

The badminton team finished up their season with several invite games, the conference tournament, and Sectionals where each player placing top four advanced to State, Havaron said. This is the first time South has won Sectionals since 2018, which only made it more exciting, Haravon said.

At the tournament there was a welcoming ceremony and a parade where all the schools were introduced by walking around the gym with each schools’, Purayil explained. Participating, watching, and cheering on some tough battles on the court was a rewarding experience for the girls, Purayil said.

“The vibe of the season is very fun,” Haravon said, “A lot of what my team works for is to win our matches, but also to get to know each other and cre- ate a strong team bond.”

The team fosters their connection through activities like team dinners, along with the big sister and little sister program, where the seniors practice with the freshmen and offer advice and gifts, freshman Maina Chander said.

During State, the team bonding and hardwork from the season was highlighted by the team’s result, Havaron explained. Showing up to practice each day with the support of her coach and teammates led to improvement, Purayil said.

“We owe a lot to our coach for being so encouraging at every practice and match we’ve had this season,” Purayil said