Lack of Funding Endangers Badminton Program

JOHNNY HUYNH

Staff Writer

Due to several technicalities, including budget and unpopularity, this season will be the last for the Moors badminton team, which holds possibly the last 59 players of the sport in AHS history.

As of next year, badminton will not be considered a California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) certified sport, therefore it will not be a valid entry on high school student athletic records.

“I can’t speak for all [the players], especially for those that have been on the team for years, who would be less apathetic [about the issue] than the newer players,” said sophomore player Geen Lam, “but I am sort of [mad] that it won’t count on records since I, like many people, have joined a sport [for] college purposes.”

It is evident that badminton is already declining since many schools and districts in the Almont League are closing their programs for the sport. El Monte accounted for half of players in League, yet they have withdrawn their badminton program. As nearby competitors are disappearing, this demands reaching for participating districts left outside the Almont League, which requires more funds from a narrow budget in order to obtain competitors.

“There is always a possibility that other programs may be cut, too,” said Athletics Department Director Lou Torres. “We obviously don’t like seeing kids losing their sport, but there are other opportunities to play within the San Gabriel Valley.”

The changes aren’t just applied to Alhambra, but to other high schools as well within the district. As the number of participating teams of the sport decreases, CIF would be less compelled to give sponsorships, which provide money for the programs to operate. With a lack of funding, the district has finalized the removal of badminton for next year.

“I feel that it’s a very sad event,” said JV Coach Johnny Le. “This will be a disadvantage for the later years, especially for the people who want to play the game but won’t be able to experience it.”

Making the most of what is left, the Moors will try to do their best and keep a positive mentality for the rest of the season. As of now, they are completely focused on practicing and training for upcoming games.

The team started their League season yesterday with a game against Pasadena.