The National Federation of High Schools has named LT physical education teacher Susan McClenahan Illinois Badminton Coach of the Year for 2015. McClenahan has been working at LT since 2001, and began coaching the junior varsity badminton team in 2008. It wasn’t until 2011 that “Coach Mac” started coaching the varsity team.

Prior to starting her career at LT in her early 20s, McClenahan hadn’t played badminton before. She began playing recreationally at lunch with her colleagues.

“I knew about badminton,” McClenahan said. “But I didn’t know all of the technicalities to it or how hard it was.”

From her time coaching the team, McClenahan has seen amazing talent, especially from Stephanie Lin ’15, a three-time badminton state champion.

Lin did a great job of taking on a leadership role and would have great discipline during practices and matches, McClenahan said.

Lin’s badminton game grew as she continued to practice in the off-season, which also encouraged others to do likewise.

“Coach Mac is definitely a no-nonsense type of instructor,” Lin said. “She guides her players with a firm hand and has an aura of authority that everyone looks up to.” McClenahan learned many useful techniques from Lin and Lin also increased the popularity of the sport.

“[McClenahan] was extremely supportive throughout my entire [badminton] career,” Lin said. “She helped me mature as both an individual and team player.”

LT guidance counselor Alex Ip began his interest in badminton when he was in fifth grade in his hometown of Vancouver, Canada. Ip volunteers his time during the badminton season to help the coaches and players. When McClenahan needs assistance, whether it be in practice, or the final state match, Ip tries to help as much as he can.

“I have been very fortunate to be a part of LT’s badminton program,” Ip said.

He works with all levels of badminton at LT and sees the girl’s progress through their careers. Throughout his 12 years of helping the badminton program, Ip has seen girls become more and more interested in what they can do in the off-season. With his years of experience, Ip is able to act as a consultant to coaches like McClenahan.

LT has won the singles state championship for the past three seasons. Remaining competitive at the state level is one of the goals of the varsity team.

“I don’t think it’s my accomplishments necessarily,” McClenahan said. “I just come with a practice plan and encourage the girls.”

Although Lin has graduated, the team will be able to use the lessons and techniques she has left with McClenahan and badminton program to keep them competing.

“[McClenahan] helped me understand the spirit of contributing to the team and encouraged us to cheer each other on and coach our fellow teammates,” Lin said. “I really cherished those moments and don’t think there is any other team as close as the LT badminton team.”