CAS Project

1. Investigation

My journey in tennis started at a young age, but it wasn’t just a sport—it became a core part of who I am. From my first time holding a racket to competing at the highest levels, tennis has challenged me in ways that shaped my discipline, resilience, and leadership. Unlike team sports, tennis places full responsibility on the player, demanding both physical and psychological strength. I quickly realized that beyond technique, success depended on my ability to stay composed under pressure, adapt mid-match, and push through setbacks.

As I progressed, I became more analytical about the game, studying professional matches and breaking down different playstyles. I realized that the mental side of tennis was just as important as the physical. How did the best players stay calm in high-pressure moments? What set apart those who could perform consistently? I learned that techniques like controlled breathing, visualization, and mental resets were just as crucial as having a strong serve or footwork.

Through this process, I also discovered the importance of leadership. As I improved, I naturally took on a role of guiding and supporting my teammates, helping them refine their skills and navigate the mental challenges of the game. Eventually, this led me to becoming team captain, where my focus shifted from just my own performance to the collective success of my team.

2. Preparation

Stepping into a leadership role meant that my preparation extended beyond personal training. I wasn’t just responsible for my own game—I had to make sure my team was ready as well. Preparing for the season required intense physical conditioning, including strength training, agility drills, and endurance workouts to ensure I could maintain peak performance during long matches.

Mental preparation became just as crucial. I worked on my focus through mindfulness techniques, learning how to reset after mistakes and stay locked in during high-pressure points. I also spent time reviewing match footage, identifying opponents’ patterns, and strategizing ways to counter their strengths.

Leadership also meant creating an environment where my teammates could thrive. I made it a point to support younger players, offering advice and encouragement to help them build confidence. I knew that the success of our team wasn’t just about individual talent—it was about working together, pushing each other to improve, and maintaining trust in one another.

3. Action

One of the defining moments of my tennis journey came during the Thailand School Championships. As captain, I felt the weight of responsibility—not just for my own matches, but for the energy and morale of the entire team.

During one crucial round, our team was tied, and it all came down to my singles match. My opponent was strong, and I found myself trailing early on. But instead of panicking, I relied on everything I had trained for—staying calm, controlling my breathing, and trusting my instincts. I reminded myself that every point was a fresh start, an opportunity to turn the match around. Slowly, I regained control, forcing my opponent into long rallies and capitalizing on small weaknesses. In the end, I fought back to win, securing the championship for our team.

Beyond competition, my role extended into guiding my teammates and mentoring younger players. I helped them refine techniques, improve their footwork, and develop their mental game. Whether it was working on a teammate’s backhand or talking them through pre-match nerves, I realized that leadership wasn’t just about performing—it was about uplifting others and setting a standard for perseverance and discipline.

4. Reflection

Tennis has shaped me in ways I never expected. It has taught me discipline, resilience, and the importance of mental strength. I’ve learned how to handle pressure, push through exhaustion, and adapt to challenges in real-time.

More than anything, this journey has shown me the value of leadership. Being a captain wasn’t just about winning matches—it was about fostering a culture of teamwork, responsibility, and mutual growth. Seeing my teammates improve, gain confidence, and fight for each other on the court reinforced that leadership is about more than just individual success.

Beyond personal growth, this experience has also deepened my appreciation for the global impact of sports. Tennis has taken me beyond just school tournaments, allowing me to compete internationally, experience different playing styles, and connect with athletes from around the world. Through these experiences, I’ve realized that the lessons I’ve learned on the court—discipline, adaptability, and perseverance—extend far beyond tennis and will continue to shape me in the future.

5. Demonstration

To track my progress, I’ve documented key matches, recorded training sessions, and written reflections on my performances. Beyond keeping personal records, I’ve shared my experiences through mentoring, coaching teammates, and helping to strengthen our school’s tennis program.

Tennis has been more than just a sport—it’s been a journey of self-discovery, leadership, and resilience. Every match, whether a hard-fought victory or a tough loss, has taught me something valuable. And just like in life, the key isn’t about never failing—it’s about how you respond, how you learn, and how you come back stronger.