Bleskit�s tennis star on the rise
Naledi Lemogang | Friday August 18, 2017 15:24
Young Bleskit said the performance during the Botswana Tennis Association (BTA) organised tournament has given him hope to keep up the hard work. He said his goal is to balance sport and his education so that he excels in both fields.
He said his family and coach have been very supportive.
“Last year, I went to Mauritius to participate in the International Tennis Federation (ITF) circuit. I did well although I was knocked out. This encouraged me to work hard and wait for the other competitions,” Bleskit said. He later participated in Tennis South Africa tournament and reached the semi finals despite tough opponents.
“I have just won a gold medal in the Botswana Junior Open and I am happy as I was seeded amongst the best in the country. It gave me power to believe in what I was doing,” he said.
The rising player said there is a lot of tennis talent in Botswana, but there are lots of areas that can be improved in order to retain the talent. “The association is doing a great job in unearthing talent. However, I think there should be some sort of tennis academies and frequent tournaments because we normally play after a long time.”
He said tennis could excel if given the necessary support.
He said tennis, as an individual sport, demands hard work and undivided concentration from players.
“I always make sure that I maintain my fitness levels through eating healthy food especially fruits, and doing (physical) exercises. When I prepare for tournaments, I work hard according to my coach’s instructions,” he noted.
Bleskit said his future in tennis looks bright and he sees himself playing in bigger tournaments.
He believes this can be achieved through hard work, integrity and discipline.
“I encourage other young athletes to be positive thinkers especially on the fields of play and work hard to achieve good results.”
FACT FILE
Full names: Abia Bleskit
Date of birth: March 29, 2003
Home village: Gweta
Sport: Tennis
Role model: Roger Federer
Favourite food: Chicken and rice