Kaitlyn Couckuyt

Start in Racquetball: I started playing racquetball through a learn to play program when I was nine years old.

Reason you love the sport: I love the fast pace of racquetball and the speed and intensity of the game. I enjoy that I get to meet new people from across the country that all share the same love of the sport.

Training habits: I train on the courts 4-5 days a week doing drills by myself, as well as working with my coach Kurtis and playing practice games whenever I can. I also workout in the gym 4 days a week. Outside of training for racquetball, I play volleyball and softball which I think are important for cross training and improve my racquetball game.

Best racquetball memory: My best racquetball memory was going to my first nationals in Winnipeg; It was eye opening to me to see so many woman and girls competing, coming from a place where I was the only girl playing. Winning that year gave me the realization and motivation to continue to improve my game.

Non racquetball talents: Outside of racquetball I excel at volleyball and softball, where I have won multiple provincial titles over the years, playing both for my school team and club.

When not playing racquetball, I’m mostly likely: When I’m not playing racquetball, you’ll probably find me playing another sport or at the gym. I also enjoy spending time with family and friends.

Something about me that’s surprising: Something that most people don’t know about me is that in my spare time I like to be creative by painting, drawing or baking.

Advise for athletes who want to play at your level: I think to get the next level it’s a lot of hard work and dedication to show up every week and train with your goals in mind. My biggest piece of advise would be not to give up because there will always be set backs in sports but it’s how you get over them that makes you a better player.

Who has been important in your development as an athlete? I think the most important person in my development as a racquetball player is my coach Kurtis Cullen. He has worked with me for almost all of my time playing racquetball and has worked tirelessly to make me a better player every time I step on the court or in the gym. Kurtis has coached me through the ups and downs and I definitely wouldn’t be the same player without him there to help me.