Kurtis Cullen

Start in Racquetball:  I started playing racquetball when I was 4 years old after my oldest sister got inolved through elementary school.

Reason for playing:  I love the intensity that racquetball brings. There is no better feeling than being on a court with a ball traveling upwards of 250km/h while still being in complete control.

Training habits:  I do a lot of my on court training by myself working on footwork, serves, and shooting set-ups. I aim to be on the court at least 4 times a week, accompanied with about 5 days of off-court training.

Best Racquetball moment:  My best racquetball memory was in 2011 when I won the 18 & under singles and doubles titles on my birthday.

Non Racquetball talents:  If being a nerd is a talent, then that is definitely it! I always have 3 or 4 books on the go, and describe myself as a personal development junkie.

When you are not playing racquetball, you are probably?  I am most likely sitting down with a good book or doing my off-court training. I am also the head coach of the junior racquetball program at my club, so I spend a lot of time working with upcoming juniors.

What is something people might not know about you or find surprising?  I am a licensed paramedic and firefighter!

What advice to you have for athletes who want to play at your level?  Practice, practice, practice! Watch videos of how the pros play and try to learn what they are doing in their game that is different than yours. I try not to re-invent the wheel, but learn from those who have already done it.

Who has been important in your development as an athlete?  I think my earliest influence was my junior coach Mike Volek followed by Jen Saunders, Mike Green and Evan Pritchard. I also have to thank my parents for their never ending support!