Warpecha returns after back surgery

Kim Warpecha is hoping her back can survive another tennis season.

The Hinsdale South senior combined with junior Emma Adcock to have a memorable state meet. The duo went an unexpected 7-2 and reached the consolation quarterfinals before losing to Lake Forest’s Faith Bassioury and Taya Zoubareva, 6-3, 6-2. Warpecha and Adcock, a state qualifier from the Hornets’ badminton team in the spring, won six consecutive matches together at the state tennis meet.

But a year later, Warpecha isn’t sure what to expect this season. She could get off to a slow start after having back surgery Dec. 15. Warpecha a Burr Ridge resident, said she is still not 100 percent and ices and exercises her back to prevent any lingering pain. Warpecha had a stress fracture in her lower back and the surgery repaired a pars interarticularis injury.

“I’m still recovering,” Warpecha said. “I’m definitely icing and stretching and doing a regular set of exercises. I’m still in the recovery process. I’m definitely not 100 percent. I’m not where I want to be, but I’ll get through it.”

Warpecha started feeling pain in the spring of 2008 during the tennis season.

“I don’t have any expectations this season,” Warpecha said. “I want to have fun and do the best I can.”

Warpecha and Adcock were a late-season doubles pairing. The duo played together during one weekend and then became partners for the sectional. Warpecha wasn’t surprised by their immediate success.

The teammates have known each other since the were 7-8 years old playing together at the Score Tennis and Fitness Club in Countryside. Although Warpecha no longer plays there, they had immediate chemistry.

“I grew up playing tennis with Emma. We’re good friends and comfortable. I’ve known her game for a while even when we were not playing doubles.”

With a top returning doubles team and singles player Lindy Wing returning, the Hornets hope to have enough of a nucleus to challenge Downers Grove South in the West Suburban Gold.

Warpecha hasn’t forgotten the state-meet experience and won’t for a very long time.

“It was so much fun. It was one of the best (experiences). I was nervous, but it was great to be out there,” Warpecha said. “I really enjoy it. I was more than excited. I’d like to do it over again.”

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