Team’s Performance

The Oak Park and River Forest High School (OPRF) badminton team demonstrated strong competition at the West Suburban Silver championships, placing fifth on May 2. Notable seniors contributed to the successful showing:

• Anika Gupta took third place in first singles.
• Wes Wong secured third place in fourth singles.

Program Expansion & Leadership

OPRF coach Paul Wright expressed satisfaction with the team’s season, despite challenges including a season-ending injury to senior Josie Badrinath. However, Badrinath’s commitment remained crucial as she stepped up as a mentor, guiding younger players to varsity-level play.

“Despite being sidelined, Josie has been a tremendous leader, stepping up as a mentor and helping coach younger players.” – Paul Wright

Wright praised the senior class for their spirit, commitment, and sportsmanship, with key members including Badrinath, Gupta, Wong, Alice Cadwell, Malini Datta-Nemana, Sonja Emerson, Ada Klein, Stella Ludwig, and Mariana Nache.

Future Looks Bright

The program’s future outlook is promising, with plans to add a fourth level of competition next year, expanding the team to freshman, junior varsity one, junior varsity two, and varsity levels. This expansion will offer more students the chance to compete, grow, and represent OPRF.

Upcoming Matchups

OPRF will compete in the sectional this week at Lake Forest. Ada Klein and Wes Wong will vie in singles, while Alice Cadwell and Anika Gupta, along with Stella Ludwig and junior Olive Tepfer, will make up the doubles units.

Hammerschmidt Honored for Community Impact

The Chicago Bears recognized OPRF junior Leia Hammerschmidt as the nine recipient of the 2025 Community High School All-Star Award. The honor acknowledges her positive impact on the community and leadership in multiple sports, including flag football, basketball, and softball.

Did you know?

Hammerschmidt has maintained a 4.57 GPA while playing multiple sports and contributing to her community through Beyond Hunger, an Oak Park-based non-profit.

Pro Tip:

pueblo support your local high school sports teams by attending games and recognizing outstanding student-athletes like Leia Hammerschmidt.

Takeaway:

While the OPRF badminton team had a strong season, gearing up for next year’s expansion is crucial for its continued success.

Comments? Questions? Share your thoughts below, and let’s celebrate our local student-athletes together!