Student Eli Lopez Embraces Life Challenges Through STF Mentorship

My tennis journey started earlier this year at Camelback High School. I wasn’t really sure what I was looking for when I joined tennis, but my expectations were high. Even though I knew nothing about the sport, I was very excited. Nevertheless, the chances of this sport not being for me were high, considering I had tried volleyball, softball, and basketball in the past and was scared of realizing I did not have what it took to be an athlete. Reflecting on this question and my tennis journey, I found that the most difficult challenge I ever faced was simply starting. We often find ourselves doubting our skills, potential, and uniqueness, when the confidence we hold in these aspects is the foundation of our growth. Without trust in who we are and what we are capable of, true growth will never be realized. The beauty of tennis is that it transcends talent. Many times, I have been held back from gaining new experiences because I thought I didn’t have the talent for them. I loved the idea of playing the violin, running track, joining cheer, befriending certain people, joining a ceramics class, or participating in a math club, but never pursued them because I feared failure. I am very glad tennis wasn’t one of those instances.

Serve the Future has challenged me in every aspect of my life. Socially, I was expected to observe during practice the passion, talent, frustration, resilience, skill, and spirit of the kids around me. After practice, I would hand out a bead. Sometimes this drill felt awkward because I didn’t know the person to whom I was giving the bead, but it was heartwarming. There was something special about letting them know someone noticed their hard work, leadership, and love for the sport. I gained new friends and the confidence to make friends in an environment where I was new and knew so little. It helped me develop my skills and realize how much weight our words carry. Words have the power to change someone’s day and practice.

Physically, the weather was very tough, but we learned to be tougher. Constant reapplication of sunscreen and plenty of water did the trick. I learned how important it is to prepare your body before and during practice to perform to the best of your abilities. I also learned that being a coach is not only about teaching but also about taking care of the kids by providing fruits, water, electrolytes, ice, sunscreen, and first aid care. During practice, learning new tennis shots is a journey that requires repetition—there are no shortcuts. I learned to receive feedback from those around me and accept my mistakes. I became more aware of my racquet positioning, footwork, sight, grip, and the trajectory of the ball.

Mentally, I have learned to be more patient with myself. I’ve discovered that anger and frustration do not make you a better player on the court, but rather an emotionally driven one. I realized the importance of journaling our feelings, goals, and mistakes. Visualizing ourselves during practice and sharing tips and tricks is a valuable skill worth keeping. I developed a new habit of journaling every day, which allows me to vent my feelings, thoughts, and goals.

Emotionally, there have been times during practice when I felt so embarrassed by failing to hit an easy ball that I came close to crying, or felt like people were watching me and that my inexperience was apparent. But then I would take a moment to breathe and realize that I was surrounded by loving and caring people who were driven to teach students like me. They were not there to judge me. I learned how much our mind and emotions can influence our performance on the court and in situations where we are the least experienced. I came to understand that most of the time, people aren’t judging me—I am judging myself. I gained perspective and realized how much my thoughts influence my feelings. I learned that I must be my own cheerleader, believe in myself, and listen to my own voice.

Outside the court, I’ve been challenged to maintain discipline and keep the promise of showing up for myself. Going to the gym every day has become an easier task due to already proving to myself that I can be resilient and attend summer camp. It has provided me with faith in myself and a sense of responsibility.

As Rafael Nadal said, ""The essence of tennis is not just in winning, but in the journey and the effort you put in to achieve your goals.""

Serve the Future has rewarded me with more than just growth in tennis; it has provided personal growth. I have gained new friendships, knowledge, confidence, support, and a sport I now love."

Eli Lopez
Camelback HS Grad ‘24
1 year in STF