Alexis Iwaasa

Start in Racquetball: I grew up watching my older brother play, and my mom knew how much I hated team sports, that’s when we knew . . .

Training habits: I go to the gym in the morning and do on court training after work.

Best Racquetball moment: My best moment would be the very first time I won a national title, I remember feeling exhilarated and just looking back and seeing my mom there, with the biggest smile, knowing all the time and money she put into this for me had paid off and that I could only be go up from there.

Non-Racquetball talents: Cooking, binging a good series.

What is something people might not know about you or find surprising? I’m good at racquet sports (oddly enough) and volleyball would be my second choice in playing a sport professionally.

When you are not playing racquetball, you are probably? Working!

What advice to you have for athletes who want to play at your level? Competing at a higher level takes a lot of time, dedication, and sacrifice. What works for them doesn’t always work for you. You’ll find your own way but you must ask yourself if its something you truly want. My mom helped me realize that no one wants to practice everyday and miss out on hanging with friends or having a social life. But that’s what changes the pros from the competitors, is how much you’re willing to put in and sacrifice just to be the best.

Who has been important in your development as an athlete? I would say my mom has been the biggest factor for me in this sport. She was always my number one fan and sent me everywhere I needed to go. I realize now she often went without just so that I could have a career in racquetball. She was my motivation, whenever I didn’t feel like going to practice or was just unmotivated she pushed me and always made me go no matter how much I persisted not too and for that I thank her.. Even though she wasn’t able to come to a lot of tournaments I knew she was proud of me and knew I would do well. Without her endless sacrifice and love for me I would have never got to where I am today and for that I’m so thankful for her.