What did the Yonex Dutch Junior bring Selena Piek?

Jij het nieuws, wij een tikkie!

What's your best memory thinking back at the YDJ?

My best memory would probably be being able to play against (now) world class players from all over the world and even manage to beat some of them. I also get a huge smile on my face when I think back of how cozy it was to play in the Duinwijck hall and the amount of support we've gotten from the home crowd in that time ;-).

Why is the YDJ the best youth tournament in the world?

Because a lot of strong young badminton players from everywhere in the world are coming over to compete. Plus everything is so well organized for a youth tournament. The hotels are close by, the transport is well organized, you can order food from all kind of places and the sport hall has his very own cafeteria where you can relax between matches and order a quick snack too! Oh and I shouldn't forget to mention the great volunteers who are working very, very hard to give the players a great time.

What did you learn at the YDJ and is still important in your career?

I learned that nothing is impossible as long as you are willing to work hard for your goals. At that age we really looked up to all the Asian players who seemed much better than we at the time, but at the end of the day, we are all human beings with a huge love for the badminton game trying to be among the best in the world. And if you continue to work hard and believe in yourself, you will be able to do some amazing things! The second thing I noticed at the YDJ was the amount of fun players had while practicing or even during their matches what still reminds me today that I'm very lucky to live a life like this.