The women’s badminton team is set for their 2026 campaign after finishing 8–4 last season. With one of the strongest recruiting class in program history, this year has the potential to be the most successful for the program. 

Last season, the team faced challenges, one of them, competing with just six players, the minimum number allowed by the 3C2A. Despite the limited roster, the team competed at a high level, which included pushing conference powerhouse Pasadena City College in both matchups. Pasadena City College finished second in the state behind DeAnza College. 

At the individual state tournament, Emily Chindamay captured the consolation singles title by defeating teammate Mylene Keophaseut. In doubles play, Christina Nguyen and Tien Nguyen advanced to the consolation finals after defeating PCC’s doubles team, before falling to El Camino College.

As the season approaches, Head coach June Andrews emphasized the importance of consistency and mental strength moving forward.“I feel we need to develop more consistency in executing our shots, and that comes from drilling and training, along with staying calm in competitive matches,” Andrews said. “Exceptional conditioning is always vital to success, and this year will be no different.”

With the excitement of a new season also comes the challenge of replacing key contributors who have moved on both athletically and academically. The most notable departure is Mesa’s former No. 1 player, Mylene Keophaseut. One of the top players ever to wear an Olympian uniform, Keophaseut was a natural talent and a leader on and off the court. Her presence will be deeply missed.

Tien Nguyen also graduated and is now attending UC San Diego. A two-year starter, Nguyen brought leadership and always supported her teammates. Marchimilia “Millie” Touch, another two-year player, provided heart, dedication, and a love for the game. Beyond their results, these athletes played an important role in the culture of the program.  

“They are wonderful young women who are a tremendous source of pride for our program,” Andrews said. “They will always be a part of this program, and their experience here helps us continue to recruit new players to Mesa College.”

Looking ahead, Andrews believes this is the strongest recruiting class since she and assistant coach Thai Lay took over the program in 2018. 

The 2026 roster features five first-year players expected to make an immediate impact.

Yumi Nguyen, out of Kearny High School, is an extremely competitive player with strong strategic knowledge, and a high level of athleticism and skill.  Through our challenge matches held at practice, she has established herself as our No.1  player.

Anna Heiner-Moeller was a surprise addition to the roster. Raised in Denmark and Canada, she has played badminton since the age of seven and even attended a badminton boarding school. A phenomenal shot-maker with a passion for the game, she brings international experience to the program.

Trang Tran, a graduate of Hoover High School, adds consistency and strength and is expected to be a reliable player at the No. 4 spot. Her clears and smashes are some of the best our program has seen. 

Chrystal Micu, a graduate of School of Performing Arts who played at Morse High School, is already showing signs of being a solid competitor. She plays with an immense amount of heart and hustle.  Micu will be a strong player in singles at the No. 5 spot. 

Freshman Paw Snow, also from Hoover High School, known simply as “Snow,”  is a smooth, fluid, and quick athlete who will add versatility to the lineup. She will play primarily in doubles, but is experienced enough to help in singles as well. 

Mission Bay class of 2025 graduates, Florisea Lopez-Mata and Fabiola “Favi” Garcia-Arteaga, will complete the team at the No. 8 and 9 spots respectively. Although new to the sport, they have already established a great work ethic and attitude towards learning and being coachable. They will play at the No. 3 doubles slot for certain matches.  

These seven newcomers join two returning players who form a strong core. 

Left-handed Christina Nguyen returns as the team’s dependable No. 3 player. Her confidence continues to grow and is also expected to have a solid year, pairing with Heiner-Moeller at the No. 2 doubles spot. 

Second-year player Alexa Izazaga-Salas  will focus on singles exclusively, coming in at the No. 6 spot. She has dedicated countless hours to training, conditioning, and drilling with Coach Lay at BPAC and SMASH badminton gyms.  

All players participated in fall badminton classes, which allowed the coaches to see their strengths and weaknesses. The Olympians last claimed state titles in 2000 and 2001. If this team remains healthy and performs to its potential, it has the talent, chemistry, and determination to make a strong run and once again raise a championship banner inside the Mesa gym.