“I hope that the people I coach will not only see me as their coach but also as their friend and mentor, someone they can comfortably ask for help with anything.“
I’m Daniel Chang, a freshman at Century College with plans to transfer to the University of Minnesota next year to pursue neuroscience. My ultimate goal is to eventually become a neurosurgeon. It’s not pro tennis, but it’ll do. However, if I somehow get a second growth spurt, I’m going for a Grand Slam. Despite all the homework and studying, somehow I always end up on the courts with my racket and shoes ready to play tennis.
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It’s funny to think that before high school, I didn’t even know tennis was a sport. The thought of tennis becoming such a huge part of my life today was unimaginable. I joined Saint Paul Urban Tennis during the winter of my sophomore year of high school through the Warrior Leadership Academy. The Warrior Leadership Academy gives underprivileged kids an opportunity to stay competitive during the winter, offering coaching from not just great coaches but also amazing people who serve as mentors to everyone.
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After graduating high school, I became a coach with SPUT, trying to recreate the same experience that I so very much loved and most importantly strengthening my bonds with everyone. I also hope that the people I coach will not only see me as their coach but also as their friend and mentor, someone they can comfortably ask for help with anything.
