It has been a pleasure to coach Lucky over the past few years and to see her improvement. Her dedication, strong work-ethic, and passion to achieve higher levels in the game are inspiring to be around. Her presence enhances the quality of the training in our program and elevates everyone to work harder and to aim higher. Below are Lucky’s thoughts on what the game of tennis means to her and how she is growing as a player and person.Â
What drives your passion and dedication to improve?Â
I love competing and love the game. Each day is a different challenge and it’s exciting to try and solve it.Â
What do you love about tennis?
Tennis is a sport that has so much to offer. The experiences and memories it has provided me are some that I’ll cherish forever. It is also a wonderful platform for a myriad of interests. For me personally, as someone passionate about social justice, it is inspiring to see how players at the professional level use tennis and their voice to promote and raise awareness about important issues.Â
What has tennis taught you?
Tennis has taught me perseverance, self-reliance, discipline, mental toughness, and to be more present in every moment. These qualities are so important because it goes beyond the tennis court. Because of these tools, I feel more readily equipped to deal with the adversities in everyday life.
What improvements have you made this summer?
This summer I’ve worked on my forehand a lot and I feel more solid on that side now. I’ve also worked a lot on playing an attacking style of tennis and I’ve been able to win more points off of forced errors.
What coaching tip has helped you the most?Â
Pressure is created, and thus only exists if you let it. Accordingly, each point counts equally and should be played with the same mentality regardless of the score.
What are your goals for the upcoming college season?
I want to increase my shot tolerance and become a tougher, grittier opponent.Â
What’s your message to other players who like you are working towards playing at the highest level of the game?
There are no limits. With effort, persistence, a plan, and the right team to support you, anything is possible.
Lucky’s journey is just starting and I look forward to her continued rise and success. We are all rooting for her and will do all we can to help her maximise her potential in the sport and beyond!Â
Thanks for reading about Lucky’s journey.Â
Harsh
