Naman Gauri

Start in Racquetball: During one of my gym classes in grade 1, my teacher noticed that I was good at badminton, and she suggested that I start playing racquetball. She taught me the basics and that’s how it all started.

Best Racquetball moment: My best racquetball memory would have to be winning a particular match during the 2019 Junior World Championships. I was playing the 5th seed from Ecuador in pool play and had lost the first game 15-5. I won the second game 15-14, and then the tiebreaker 11-10 while also receiving a technical in the final moments of the match. It didn’t account for much since it was for seeding, but it was one of the matches I will never forget.

Non-Racquetball talents: I am a pro at making a grilled cheese sandwich.

What is something people might not know about you or find surprising? I had a pet parrot that flew away when I was very young. I had recently come to know that we actually named the bird ‘Budgie’ which was the parrot’s breed – very creative.

When you are not playing racquetball, you are probably? Studying when in university/ Spending time with friends, or playing other sports.

What advice to you have for athletes who want to play at your level? I think that it is important to have fun, great coaching, training partners, a positive atmosphere, and a good attitude for an athlete to excel.

Who has been important in your development as an athlete? First, I would have to thank my parents for supporting and travelling with me to nearly each and every tournament/event. Shanda McKnight introduced me to the sport. Milton and Coby Iwaasa really helped build my foundation and the core of my game. Currently I am working with Tim Landeryou. Mike McPhee and Rino Langelier have also been a tremendous help to my game. During my younger junior years many individuals were extremely supportive and continue to be helpful throughout my tournaments in Alberta and down in Montana.