Teen tennis star makes national U17 side
JAHAR Persad has devoted a decade of hard work and dedication to his junior tennis career. Over the years, the bigserving 17-year-old has represented ethekwini and Kwazulu-natal in tournaments around the country.
Now, on the back of some red-hot form, Persad has been called up to the national U17 team that will be competing in London later this month.
This is the first time he will wear the green and gold colours in friendly matches against players from England’s Milford and Sutton Academy.
Persad was outstanding at the national trials held in Pretoria a few weeks ago.
He won three out of the five games against the best players in his age group.
His service game was the ace up his sleeve and Persad dropped only a handful of sets during the trials.
“I was quite excited to be included in the South African team,” he said. “I am looking forward to seeing what level their players are at and how competitive things are.
“I have put a lot of time and effort into my game so I feel like everything is coming together.”
The Overport teen explained that he had made some minor changes to his game over the past few months, which has made all the difference. He said his coach, Bruce Young, has pushed him to the limits on and off the court.
“My coach has improved my strength and tactical abilities,” Persad said. “I feel fitter and stronger. I see things a bit differently on the court and I am making better decisions.”
Analysing his matches with his dad, Ranveer, has also contributed to Persad’s improving game.
“We talk through what went wrong and how I can improve,” he said. “My parents have been very supportive and have given me every opportunity.”
With just a few weeks before he heads to London, the Grade 11 Glenwood High pupil does not have much time to prepare because his midterm exams require his full attention.
“My academics are really important to me,” he said. “I want a place in a US college, which will really help my goal of playing professionally.”