Lansing, IL (April 14, 2012) What a great opportunity for our Lady Rams to see and meet Ilian Perez (2011 U.S. Men's Singles Champion) at the TF South Invite on Saturday. TF South hosted an exhibition match with Ilian Perez (USA #1 Ranked Singles Player) and Thomas Chen (owner of Midwest Badminton Club in Woodridge, IL). The girls could not believe their eyes as Ilian gracefully moved about the court hitting the birdie in every spot and every direction. Ilian demonstrated his quickness and series of shots used in the game of Badminton. Eman Samra, a junior from Reavis, could not believe how well he performed his backhand that she actually was able to play a 3 point game against Ilian to win a prize. As Ilian shot the birdie down the line to Eman's forehand, Eman returned with a beautiful cross court drop shot that Ilian missed. Eman won a huge poster for Reavis High School in which he autographed for the girls wishing them luck on their season. Sara Witek also tried her hand at beating Ilian in a 3 point game, but did not score against him. Marissa Mangala then tried her luck on the court with Ilian as she graced the court with 3 other badminton players (each taking a corner of the court) to play 4 against 1, but unfortuately that grouping did not win their short game either. Ilian is a Cuban born athlete that showed politeness, professionalism and great sportsmanship. He also signed autographs and took pictures with the girls. He was living in California but actually now resides in Burbank, IL. This exhibition match took place right before the first match of the tournament and it really got our Lady Rams pumped up and ready to play. It will be a day that the girls will never forget.
/>