Ariana Buller

Start in Racquetball: I have been playing racquetball for as long as I can remember. My Dad taught me how to play when I was about seven years old.

Reason for playing: I love the community and travel opportunities that racquetball offers. I’ve been able to make friends with and regularly see people from all over Canada while making memories with my family in places I would never have gone without racquetball. It also allows me to excel in other sports because of the athletic experience it gives me. I enjoy the competitive aspects of racquetball as well.

Training habits: I train at least four times a week performing solo drills or playing games with family and friends. In addition to racquetball, I attend multiple dance technique classes that add to my rigorous training.

Best Racquetball Memory: A moment that I will never forget was at my very first tournament in Calgary. I was around eight years old and had managed to make it to the final for the junior division. I was sure I was going to lose because I was up against… a teenage boy who was two feet taller than me. I continued to win the match and so began my career as a “professional” racquetball player. At least that’s how my eight-year-old self depicted it.

Non-Racquetball Hidden Talent: I greatly enjoy and excel at competitive dancing in the genres of jazz, ballet and contemporary. Along with dance, I also participate in my school’s theatre productions and have a love of horseback riding.

When I’m not playing racquetball, I’m usually: Though most of my time is spent on racquetball, dance and schoolwork, if I’m not doing those things, I would probably be ATVing, reading, hanging out with friends, training my dog, or watching a good movie with my family.

A surprising fact about me: I enjoy completing 1000-piece puzzles while listening to music.

Advise for other developing athletes: Although it’s one of the most basic motivational phrases, I believe it is the most important one: Don’t give up. Many times, throughout my racquetball training I’ve thought to myself, “I should just quit.” Getting to the level I am at now took years of practice, commitment, and hard work but I have experienced so many great things along the way. Looking back, I am very glad that I didn’t give up, and I believe that those three words are a large part of what you need to achieve your goals.

Who has been important to you in your racquetball journey? My Dad has been the most important in my physical development as a racquetball player. From drive serves to ceiling balls, he has improved my overall technique. My additional coach, Scott Smith, has also improved my overall game play. My Mom and Oma have helped me through the emotional and mental side of racquetball.