Kylie Cheng is looking forward to her second Canada Winter Games experience with Team BC.
At the Prince George 2015 Canada Winter Games, she finished in fifth in doubles female, fifth in doubles mix and fourth in the mixed team competition.
Hometown:
Vancouver, B.C.
Age:
21
How long have you been involved in the sport:
14 years
How did you get your start in badminton?
My parents love to play badminton. They used to play with my older brother and I would just sit on the side because I was much younger. But since they were always missing a fourth, they wanted me to take lessons so I could join them as quickly as possible. Luckily, where they were playing there was a really great coach who was able to train me and bring out my potential.
Who has had the most impact on you so far in your badminton career?
My parents. If it was not for them, I would not have played badminton. If it was not for them, I would have also quit a long time ago and never got the opportunity to experience big events like the Canada Winter Games. Badminton has impacted my life in many ways. Many life lessons and life-long friends have been made throughout my badminton career. My life would be so different if I had not pursued this. I am forever grateful that my parents have always been so encouraging and patient with me. Their limitless love and support undoubtedly is what keeps me motivated in striving for greatness. Without them, I would not be where I am today.
What does it mean to you to be chosen to Team BC?
It’s truly an honour. I am super excited to be a part of Team BC again and I can’t wait to show my B.C. pride.
What is your greatest accomplishment so far in sport?
I think my greatest accomplishment so far is probably representing Canada at the World Junior Team Championships. I had to play a series of tournaments in B.C. and in Canada and be amongst the top two or three in order to qualify for it. I did really well during those couple of years, but I definitely struggled in between to maintain my motivation during training. It was difficult, but totally worth it.
What are some of your other achievements?
I’ve won Junior Nationals a couple times, competed in the Junior Pan American Games and World Junior Team Championships. I was nominated by Badminton BC for female athlete of the year in 2015. I didn’t win the overall award, but I thought that was pretty cool that I was taken into consideration.
What are your goals for the 2019 Canada Winter Games?
Obviously I am looking to medal at the Games! I am also really just hoping to better my results from the last Canada Winter Games in 2015 and to trade lots and lots of pins and get some really cool rare ones.
What do you like to do when you aren't playing badminton?
Might sound boring to some people, but I really just like to sit back and relax and do nothing if I have free time. I would stay home and listen to some music and give my self a little at-home spa day.
Do you have pre-game superstitions?
Yes! I cannot personally take any pictures before my games or post anything that relates to my matches on social media. I have to wait until the tournament is completely over for me to do so. It’s super bad luck.