The Piedmont High School badminton team is looking to continue 2022’s late season success. The Highlanders went 4-7 on the year, and have already matched that win total in their first four matches in 2023.
Piedmont coach Fiona Lai tempered expectations, noting that several of the stronger West Alameda County Conference schools are still to come. But she also noted that the team has more players who play year-round than in the past, and that experience should help the Highlanders.
Seniors Gary Zhou and Ethan Tran are back as the No. 1 doubles team for Piedmont. Lai said they are four-year varsity players and have played together for the past couple of years. That familiarity should help their game.
A couple of sophomores top the girls’ singles group. Maddie Xiong will play at No. 1 and Nasreen Schulze is at No. 2.
“They’re both pretty strong overall,” Lai said.
Sophomores Justin Phmah and Clea Villaluz make up the No. 1 mixed doubles team. Both are year-round players and are strong all-around, according to Lai.
The No. 2 mixed doubles team is freshman Mandy Tang and junior Edwin Tang (not related). Lai said Mandy Tang is new to the sport, but started by playing over the past summer and has improved quickly.
A pair of freshmen make up the No. 2 girls doubles team, Madeline Tran and Samantha Huynh. Both came from the Piedmont tennis program.
“For not playing badminton before, they play pretty well,” Lai said.
Junior Ken Sibal is No. 2 in boys singles.
“He tries really hard, gives a good fight when he’s playing,” Lai said.
Great coverage finally of Badminton! This is a top Asian and European sport and we are thrilled the US has this sport at PHS too. Thanks Exedra!