VICTOR YU | Head Coach
When did you first start playing badminton? When I was 10 years old, in gym class. I fell in love with this sport and began taking formal lessons shortly after.
How has badminton impacted your life? I’ve met a lot of great friends through this game, now I have the opportunity to share this sport with other people!
Other hobbies: racing cars, scuba diving, mountain biking, eating good food
Misc facts: I used to work as an engineer for Toyota, but found my true passion teaching high school engineering and computer science.
JASON JIH | Head Coach
When did you first start playing badminton? I started playing late in high school. My mom signed me up to help me lose weight, and now it’s a sport that I can see myself playing for the rest of my life.
How has badminton impacted your life? I’m grateful that the sport introduced and connected me to so many great people/players. (Pictured above on the left is 2x Olympic Silver Medalist from Korea, Yoo Yong Sung)
Other hobbies: I enjoy table tennis, pool, and exploring new adventures with my fiancee.
Misc facts: I have a twin brother, so if I am not acting right, it’s probably my brother.
TRACY HOLMES | Head Coach
When did you first start playing badminton? About age 9. I played my first US Nationals in Austin, Texas at age 12. My dad ran the local recreation dept. evening program for 40 years in Dearborn, Michigan. My two older sisters would go with him and I tagged along.
How has badminton impacted your life? Badminton was a huge part of my life and my memories from age 9-24. Growing up we practiced 3 nights a week while my dad coached us, we traveled all over for weekend tournaments, including many in Canada. I still have incredible friends from all over the country, cherished memories, unique life experiences, and travel. I received a full ride athletic scholarship at ASU where I obtained my degree.
Other hobbies: Being a mother is the best job I have ever had. I have a daughter and a son. I have always owned animals as well. I like to garden, decorate, and I love to learn, especially about the human body and medicine.
Misc facts: I work as a tutor for Anatomy and Physiology (and other nursing classes) at COD and enjoy being on a college campus.
KAREN CHIN | Assistant Coach
When did you first start playing badminton? I was first introduced to badminton during my middle school P.E. class. I enjoyed it so much that I had my father take me to a nearby recreation center where we would play with local residents. Since then, I have been playing for almost 19 years.
How has badminton impacted your life? The badminton community has always been like a second family to me. By attending tournaments all over the U.S., friendships are made and it makes attending these events so special to me.
Other hobbies: I am an avid runner and have done countless 5Ks and 10Ks. I ran three half marathons(two of them being in Disney – which were both amazing experiences!). I also recently picked up thepractice of yoga sculpt.
Misc facts: I work for a staffing company that assists in finding job and projects for IT and Telecom contractors.
CK LAU | Assistant Coach
When did you first start playing badminton? I started playing back when I was in Malaysia during mymiddle school years at open gyms with friends. We would participate at local school competitions for fun.
How has badminton impacted your life? The sport has given me the opportunity to create long lasting friendships from all over the world. It’s also a great tool for networking and meeting different people.
Other hobbies: Golf, table tennis and fishing.
Misc facts: I work as an independent contractor for commercial real estate and property management.