Name: Angelia Berti
Year: senior
Hometown: Hinsdale
What was the feeling last year when the season was canceled?
I was extremely disappointed because I only play one sport, and when you train for something all year and then for it to get canceled, it just feels like you wasted a lot of time.
Does this season have more significance?
In a way because it's my last year, and I think I have to do my best. My goal is to win a state medal with my doubles partner Lily (McCain).
What got you into playing badminton?
I started when I was in fourth grade playing recreationally in my backyard with my older brother and my twin sister, Natalia.
What do you enjoy most about the sport?
I like that you can hit the birdie anywhere with different techniques and trick shots. Because it's such a fast game, it's very intriguing to me. It's easy to play but it's hard to master.
How have your skills improved since freshman year?
I started out as a singles players and now I'm hoping to go to state for doubles. It's a lot harder when you have a partner because it's not just your success on the line.
How would your teammates describe you?
They'd describe me as eccentric and hardworking. I love doing fun activities with the team like tie-dying shirts or going out to breakfast. We still did our tie-dying (during the pandemic) but we had different stations so people could be distanced.
Do you have any pre-match rituals?
Since my sophomore year, I've brought a pack of heart stickers before every match, and we'll just give them out to everyone and put them all over our uniforms.
What else are you involved in?
I'm co-founder of the Hinsdale Central Greek Club.
Any special skills?
I've taught myself to speak Korean. And I'm trying to learn how to skateboard.
Why does coach Katie Maley enjoy having Berti on the squad?
She is a fantastic and incredibly skilled player. She is awesome on and off the court. She is one of our captains and leads by playing her hardest every day in practice and making sure everyone is included and working hard as well. She definitely leads by example.
- profile by Ken Knutson, photo by Jim Slonoff
