04/16/2026
,
Great athletes may be defined by the championships they’ve won, but great men, of which I believe is of greater importance, is defined by the lives they touch.
And it is this latter element, being a great man, which ultimately is of highest virtue and brings greatest meaning to life in my humble opinion.
Thus, as I reflect on the “Top 10” memories of the ~ 10 years of working together starting back in Oct 2014 (gosh we look like little kids as I look at those early NYC photos!) through the 2024 Olympic games, it is NOT the numerous athletic accolades that you won on the court (Olympics, World Championships, All England’s, etc).
Rather my “Top 10” favorite memories are filled by those off the court … the laughter, the jokes, the food, the travels, and of course, the training sessions no one ever saw.
These qualities you displayed (work ethic, sacrifice, discipline, humor, collaboration, etc) that touched the lives of so many off the court, will serve you great as you step into the next phase of life.
Look forward to seeing where your post badminton career takes you.
My best,
Sean Casey