Amaia Connor has become the 16th tennis player to receive a university scholarship from the Anguilla Tennis Academy (ATA).
The talented sportswoman will be studying business management at Savannah State University.
The academy hosted a ceremony to celebrate Connor’s achievement with her family and friends on 26 July.
It began with a prayer and welcome remarks, followed by a documentary showcasing Connor’s development and growth at the ATA, a Facebook post from the academy on 30 July said.
The film showed that her journey in tennis began at a very young age, and her dedication to the sport was evident through her consistent participation in training and then in the ATA’s summer camps.
Like other collegiate tennis players before her, she committed to a year of intensive training at the academy with the goal of securing a scholarship for her university education.
During this period, she achieved the PTR Level 1 coaching certification, coached various age groups, and trained in Texas at the prestigious T Bar M Racquet Club.
Staying focused
Academy founder and president Mitchelle Lake then spoke, emphasising the importance of hard work and dedication, the post said.
He also told the audience that the success of the ATA is attributed to the continued support of the many local sponsors and the fact that one man’s dream has become a shared vision.
A special video featuring messages from Connor’s family and friends added a personal element to the event.
“You had to change a lot of little things in order to make big changes to your game. You stayed focused, and with time it came together.”
In her own speech, Connor thanked everyone for believing in her, challenging her, and being there every step of the way.
“You all have impacted my life far beyond the boundaries of the tennis court. I will forever cherish the memories I’ve made and the lessons I’ve learned,” she said.
The ceremony, which was MC’d by coach Shridath Rey, concluded with a vote of thanks.
