2009 Atlantic Senior Elite Series, Champion!

Yesterday in Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada, I played in the finals of the 2009 Atlantic Senior Elite Series against Alexander Pang of Alberta. In the local press and talk of Moncton there was alot of hype about this finals and me winning it. I felt that there was alot of pressure for me to win it and was very much in the mood to be champion. The first set against Pang started off very well for me and was able to take an early lead of 11-4. The rest of the set was relatively smooth for me and was able to keep the lead and won 21-14. The second set however was a different story. Alexander was very smart in changing his tactics by keeping the net and getting the attack. He took an 11-5 lead and was looking like he was going to take the second set. At the 11 point break I also made an adjustment of my own which payed off…big time.. I stoped playing soft at the net, instead I was pushing the shuttle into the court which made it very difficult for him to play tight. This got me more lifts in the end and allowed me to attack him more often. I was able to comeback and take a 20-18 lead. Pang was able to save one match point before giving me a 21-19 victory. I absolutely elated and proud that I could come home to give my mother a gold medal for christmas:) I would like to thank the organization and the incredible family that took me in and treated me like family. I had an amazing time and look forward to returning next year.