RAISING ‘STAR’ KIDS: Get More Inspiration on Bringing Out The Very Best in Your Child

So far, we’ve brought you the amazing stories of Angela Osaigbovo and Kiki Hector-Fowobaje. If you missed it, read here and here.

Today, meet multiple award winning tennis player, Serena Teluwo.

8-year-old Serena Teluwo started playing tennis at the age of five. Her mum tells us, “My husband and I love tennis, so, she was named after the American tennis player, Serena Williams. We knew she liked tennis as even at a very young age, she called Serena Williams ‘My big sister,’ so we gave it a try. The joy she felt when she met Serena Williams on their tour in Nigeria was out of this world. It’s a thrill just to watch her play. She plays with so much passion and ease.”

Serena was runner-up for the 13th Edition of Governors Cup 2013, MP Tiger Tennis Most Improved Player, 2013, runner-up Summer Series Open Under 8, 2014, and Middlesex Tennis Club Tour Winner 2014, among others.

See excerpts from our chat with Serena and her mum, J. Teluwo:

What’s your regular day like?

Serena: I go to school from 8a.m. to 2p.m. from Monday to Friday, and after school, I go for tennis training from 3p.m. to 6p.m at the Lagos Country Club. Then, I read my books every day before going to bed.

What inspires you to want to be the best at what you do?

Serena: My dad encourages me to play better and also be devoted.

What do you think have contributed to your success so far?

Serena: I try to work hard to improve on my skills. My coach, Paul Moses, has also helped. I listen to my coach and train every day.

Apart from tennis, what other hobbies do you have?

Serena: I like swimming and singing. I also like dance drama because of the music and dance.

What competitions do you aspire to participate in the future?

Serena: US Open, Roland Garos, Wimbledon, ATP Women World Tour. I want to be a professional tennis player because I love playing tennis. I’m preparing by working harder on my skills and training every day.

Serena’s mum:

How do you strike the needed balance between Serena’s passion for tennis and staying dedicated to her academics?

“We try as much as possible to schedule all her trainings, tours and competitions away from school time as much as possible. We make time for her to sleep adequately too because rest is as important.”

How does participating in extra-curricular activities rub off on her overall personality and performance at school?

“It makes her competitive, and I don’t think it’s a bad thing because she wants to get better. It is now my duty to keep her committed to both ends and enforce discipline so she doesn’t go overboard.”

Tips for parents on discovering their child’s potential, both in academics and extra-curricular, and helping them be the best they can

“They should try and encourage their children in whatever sport they want to play. It’s easier when the child is interested and has passion for it. If you were to force the child, then it’s a different ball game because you’ll find the child lacking in some areas because there is no passion. If they have the needed skills and interest, please encourage them and start as early as possible so you can help the child fulfill their dreams.”

Serena’s aunt, Odion Aikpokpo, stood in for her mum, who was then abroad, at the time of the photoshoot.

More to come…