De Anza College’s badminton team ended its season undefeated and won the state championships.

The season started in February and finished the first week of May.

“We’ve bonded a lot through these practices so we’re constantly around each other,” freshman player Nancy Huynh said.

One of the greatest accomplishments of the team this season was defeating top rival, San Francisco City College twice.

“Some of the best moments this season was when everyone came together.

“I’m proud to say that I had a great time with one of the loudest and most caring teams out there,” freshman Ayesha Nadiadwala said.

During the state championships, the doubles tournament was between two De Anza teams.

Freshmen Pinky Li and Jessica Dinh battled for first place against their teammates and dynamic sister duo Katherine Ja and Christina Ja.

“This was one of the most intense matches.

“It went to something equivalent to sudden death in sports,” Mark Landefeld,  badminton head coach said.

For incoming and continuing players, sophomore team captain Katherine Ja has a message that she said hopes will inspire them.

“Continue the legacy we created. No matter what, you can’t be satisfied with doing the bare minimum.

“You have to strive to be the best you can and finish with no regrets,”
she said.