At Aria Sportscape Academy, we pride ourselves on fostering a community where passion for tennis and commitment to equality thrive. We recently had the opportunity to get to know the incredible women representing our academy at the Ladies League UAE. Here are their stories, filled with advice, inspiration, and a shared love for the game.
Patricia
What advice would you give to new players joining the team?
Doubles tennis relies heavily on teamwork, so on the court, we are one. We have to work together, cover each other's weaknesses, and celebrate each other's successes. Also, attitude is very important: stay positive, learn from mistakes, and celebrate progress along the way.
Can you share a challenging moment you've faced on the court and how you overcame it?
One challenging moment we faced was during a crucial match when we were down 1 set and 0-3 in the second set. Instead of letting the pressure overwhelm us, we decided to be more focused, breathe between points, and trust in our instincts. We managed to rally back point by point and won in a super tie-breaker! This taught me the importance of mental resilience, teamwork, and staying focused under pressure.
Wendy
What motivates you to keep pushing yourself in tennis, both on and off the court?
Being part of a fun team encourages me to perform my best for both my partner and the team. Sharing wins is the best, but supporting each other through losses is motivating as we get straight onto planning how to get more points in the next game.
How do you balance your tennis commitments with other aspects of your life?
Family first, tennis second, and everything else can fall where it may! Playing tennis is a great way to de-stress and laugh with a great group of ladies. The focus required during a match or practice session is a great escape from anything else that might be on my mind.
Magali
What inspired you to become a tennis coach, and how has your coaching philosophy evolved over the years?
I was inspired by the opportunity to keep doing what I love most—tennis—and to transfer this love to my students. Each student is different, and adapting to every situation is key. Each player works differently on the court, and I love this challenge.
How do you approach building a strong team dynamic and fostering individual player growth within the Tennistas team?
Communication and working together as one are crucial. Our team trains a lot together, getting used to each other’s personalities and play styles, which makes us stronger and more supportive of each other on and off the court. It's been an amazing journey this year; we have all grown, matured, and learned from every experience.
Mami
How did you stay motivated during your recovery from ACL surgery, and what kept you going?
Initially, it was tough to watch others play, but once I started exercising at the gym for rehab, I began to believe every exercise could lead me back to the court. Watching my teammates play also kept me motivated. My coach Magali and my teammates’ care and support made me want to play with them again.
What are your goals for the upcoming season, both individually and as a team?
Individually, my goal is to perform my best and enjoy the moment on the court with gratitude to everyone who supported me. As a team, we aim to win as much as possible, but I also hope every lady feels improvement and a stronger bond through practice and matches.
Natasha
How has becoming a mother influenced your approach to tennis, if at all?
Becoming a mother hasn't influenced my game much. Tennis gives me a bit of sanity as it’s a part of my life that belongs to me. Once my kids are old enough, I’ll encourage them to join me on the court. Playing tennis through childhood and rekindling this passion as an adult has been wonderful.
What advice would you give to other athletes balancing parenthood and sports?
Parenthood can easily take over your life. Finding something for yourself, like a sport, serves as a reset button and makes you a better parent. Balancing tennis and parenthood is rewarding and necessary for maintaining sanity and joy.
Rishika
What aspect of your game have you been focusing on improving lately, and how's the progress?
After a shoulder injury, I’ve been focusing on getting my backhand back to its previous level and adding topspin to my forehand. My backhand is making a comeback, and while the topspin forehand is challenging due to muscle memory, it's progressing.
Can you share a funny or memorable moment from a match or practice?
Acing ‘A’ League players on my first match back this season was memorable. With every partner I’ve played, we’ve always found moments to smile about, even when losing. Practices are full of funny moments, especially watching our Captain perfect her man smashes!
Alisa
How do you approach mental toughness during matches, especially in high-pressure situations?
I focus on the positive aspects of the game and what works while mentally blocking negative thoughts. This helps me stay focused and manage mental stress.
What's one thing you wish you knew when you first started playing tennis competitively?
How in my late 30s could I can compete with those who started playing tennis in their early teens!
Asiya
What's your favorite part about being a part of the Tennistas team?
My favorite part is the friendship and trust between us. The coach, captain, and team members always lift your spirits when you’re not at your best. As someone new to the league, I credit coach Magali for making me believe I can enjoy competitive tennis.
How do you prepare yourself physically and mentally before a big match?
I practice regularly at Sportscape and never miss my cherished tea on match day, even if I’m late for pre-match practice. Mentally, I need to work on embracing challenges head-on rather than second-guessing myself.
Yana
How do you feel about your time with the Tennistas coming to an end, and what will you miss the most?
Nearing the end of my time with Tennistas is bittersweet. Playing with them has been a highlight and an escape from my adult responsibilities. I will miss the camaraderie, the humor, the intense emotions, and the shared experiences on and off the court.
What lessons have you learned from tennis that you'll carry with you to Hong Kong?
Keep calm, then even calmer. Hit the ball, then hit it harder. Breathe deeply and stay focused. Tennis has taught me resilience and joy in the face of challenges.
Nita
What inspired you to start playing tennis, and how has it impacted your life?
I played tennis early in life and picked it up again during COVID for activity and safety. Tennis quickly became an addiction and a vital part of my daily routine. It’s my therapy, helping me through tough times and keeping me focused.
What's your favorite memory or moment from your time with the Tennistas so far?
Winning our first match together with Yana, winning the B1 and B2 competitions consecutively, and recently winning Line 1 with Patricia are high on my happy memory list. The memory that makes me smile most is deciding to become a team and embark on this rewarding journey together.
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