Izak & Alexis's story — they started from scratch and found their confidence
Jimmy Tran • Brand new to badminton → Junior High Performance • Grassroots journey
When Izak and Alexis first walked into Elite Athlete Academy, they were complete beginners. No competitions, no history with the sport — just two kids, aged 8 and 12, picking up a racquet at social sessions for the first time.
"They were very new and just starting out, playing socials. It's good to just have someone to hit with."
For their dad, Jimmy, the goal was never trophies. It was something deeper — health, wellbeing, and confidence that would carry into the rest of their lives.
"I want them to improve through this sport for their health and wellbeing — and to be confident in life."
Time off devices. Better health. Kids who are genuinely happy in themselves.
"It brings health and wellbeing for the kids, builds real confidence, and they're happy with themselves. Improving their health is the most important thing — being competitive is a bonus."
His advice to other parents whose child is just starting out is simple, and it captures exactly what EAA is built for:
"Keep going. Getting them off their devices is a bonus, and their health is a huge benefit."
As the months went on, the change was unmistakable. The same two kids who started out just learning to rally became competitive, engaged, and sure of themselves — progressing all the way into our Junior High Performance program.
"A lot has changed. They're more competitive, more confident, more engaged.”
— Jimmy Tran, parent of Izak & Alexis,
Junior High Performance Program