Seniors Luna McNally and Clare Ruska were the only sophomores on Riverside Brookfield High School’s senior-heavy badminton team in 2023. Now, they are reunited as doubles partners for the first time since their varsity debuts.
“I feel like we always keep each other going and never give up when it’s close or tight,” Ruska said. “We played together before, so we already have chemistry and know each other’s playing styles.”
McNally and Ruska, along with junior Aubrey Kaczmarek, are the only returning players from last year’s sectional lineup. The Bulldogs once again have a senior-heavy roster, but much of the team lacks varsity experience.
“Honestly, I just want to have fun and bond with my teammates,” Ruska said. “Winning is great, but making new friends and building those lifelong connections is just as important.”
At the 2024 Naperville North Sectional, Ruska and Kaczmarek (19-12) competed as a doubles team, while McNally played alongside the now-graduated Bella Annoreno (14-17). Both pairs went 0-2. McNally also competed in singles at sectionals as a sophomore but did not advance.
“I love playing doubles with Clare because she’s always enthusiastic and keeps my spirits up,” McNally said. “Everyone on this team is passionate about badminton and shows great resilience.”
Junior Rhea McDonald also brings varsity experience, but the rest of the lineup includes several newcomers. Freshman Mariana Lozano and sophomore Paloma Mendoza are expected to play doubles together, while juniors Maribelle Lopresti and Maddie Domanowski round out the roster.
“Clare, Luna, and Aubrey are our returners, so we’re looking to them to lead and help develop the younger players,” head coach Dan Herbeck said.
Taking on leadership roles is a new experience for McNally and Ruska.
“It’s different because for the past three years, we’ve looked up to older players as role models,” McNally said. “Now, it’s our turn to be role models for everyone else. It feels weird, but it’s also fun.”
This season, the Bulldogs have moved to the Upstate Eight Conference. Their opening match on Monday was a home triangular against South Elgin and Glenbard East.
“With our new conference, we’ve upgraded our schedule,” Herbeck said. “We’re hoping that extra challenge will pay off by sectionals. Our goal is to compete in every match and keep improving throughout the season.”
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