The NAIT Ooks Badminton Team has had an incredible start to their season, securing their place as the number one ranked team in the nation.

Their most recent tournament showcased their skill and determination, with the Ooks placing first overall. Standout performances included Smit Patel, who clinched first place in men's singles for the Ooks.

As the team sets its sights on the upcoming playoffs, they have been training rigorously to maintain their top performance. Among the dedicated athletes is Noel Do, who shared her thoughts on the season so far and how the team is gearing up for the matches ahead.

"We have a really strong team overall, and I feel that everyone has been doing amazing," Noel shared. "Each player brings a unique skill set to the court, so we mix and match a lot during practice. Fortunately, many of us work really well together, which has helped us succeed."

Holding the number one spot in the ACAC is a remarkable achievement, and Noel acknowledges that the team's relentless work ethic and passion for the sport have been key factors in their success.

However, being at the top comes with its own challenges. The pressure to perform at a high level can be intense, but Noel emphasized that the team remains grounded by focusing on maintaining a positive atmosphere and enjoying the journey together.

"Of course, being at the top feels amazing, but there's always that pressure to keep performing at our best," she admitted. "Despite that, we make sure to have fun, support each other, and stay a united team. That's been really important for us this season."

This strong sense of camaraderie and support has played a crucial role in the team's success. Noel highlighted that their ability to openly communicate, offer advice, and push each other to improve has made a significant impact on their performance.

"Being comfortable with each other and being able to share our opinions or give advice has been a major contributor to our success. We help each other grow, and that's what really sets us apart."

As teams prepare for the upcoming championships, it's common for athletes to experience burnout or lose motivation. However, the NAIT Ooks' competitive drive fuels their determination to keep pushing forward.

"Our competitiveness keeps us motivated to constantly improve. A lot of us are always asking questions like, 'Are we doing this right?' or 'Can you show me how to do this better?' That willingness to learn and grow is what keeps us going."

Looking ahead, the Ooks are eager to bring home another provincial championship banner for NAIT and earn a spot in the CCAA National Championships. The ACAC Championships will take place on Saturday, February 15, and Sunday, February 16, at Concordia University of Edmonton, where the team will fight to maintain their place at the top and bring home another title.