As a relative newcomer to badminton, I support the youth trainers during training sessions. I discovered the joy (and physical intensity) of being part of a badminton club through my son and daughter. I wish I had a chance to play during my youth. The youth club of BV Zeeburg, however, gives me an opportunity to catch up!  I aim to combine my “beginner’s mind” for badminton with my “lessons learned” from my training in various sports, including alpine ski racing, tennis, and football. Through “progress and not perfection,” I hope to help make badminton fun and a lifelong sport for the youth. I am originally from New York, with parents from Japan.