James & Daniel's Tennis Journey

From Backyard Rallies to National Courts: How Tennis Transformed James and Daniel's Lives

James was just seven when he first picked up a tennis racket. His younger brother, Daniel, was five, barely tall enough to hold the racket upright. What started as casual backyard rallies soon grew into something much bigger. Today, tennis is at the centre of their lives, and the sport that has brought their whole family closer together.

Starting Young: Where Their Tennis Journey Began

The brothers’ journey in Singapore tennis began with Daniel joining the Red Ball program, followed by James entering the Orange Ball program at UFIT Tennis Singapore. Their parents still laugh when recalling those early days:

“Daniel was so small… he held my racket at the condo, and it was almost as big as him.”

What made UFIT stand out was the balance of fun, engagement, and high-quality coaching, something many parents look for in junior tennis classes in Singapore.

“The kids had a lot of fun. The coaches are super nice with the kids,” they share. The sessions were packed with games, movement, and excitement, keeping them motivated while helping them build strong foundations in tennis technique.

As the boys grew, their training naturally evolved. They progressed from fun-focused drills into the High Performance Junior Tennis Program, which introduced more technical work, movement training, and structured twice-weekly practice. This progression made a huge difference in their consistency, footwork, and on-court confidence.

Climbing the Ranks: From JTTL to National Tournaments

James and Daniel first tested their skills in the JTTL (Junior Tennis Tour League), a great starting point for young players in Singapore to experience competition in an encouraging setting.

Soon after, they advanced to STA (Singapore Tennis Association) tournaments. This is where Daniel truly made his mark, especially in singles matches. His dedication and commitment paid off when he reached an impressive #3 national ranking for his age group (Under-10).

And the milestone he’s most proud of?
Being selected to represent Singapore in the national tennis squad. A remarkable achievement and a testament to his hard work and the guidance of his coaches.

Great Coaching Makes Great Players

Behind the boys’ success is one key ingredient: exceptional coaching.

“One of the things we love most about UFIT is actually the coaches… they’re so good with the kids, they’re very patient,” their parents explain.

Both James and Daniel train with Coach Paul and Coach Nino, who blend technical precision with encouragement, discipline, and fun. They receive a mix of private tennis lessons and group training, giving them the best of personalised coaching and team-based development.

Tennis as a Family Lifestyle

Beyond tournaments and rankings, tennis has become part of the family’s identity. What began with a simple goal, to play tennis together, has grown into a shared passion.

Now, with another family member joining lessons, they’re even planning to enter a mixed doubles tennis tournament as a family team.

“It’s been a really good experience and journey for us,” their father says.

Their story shows how tennis in Singapore can be more than a sport, it can build resilience, create connection, and strengthen family bonds.

The Heart of Junior Tennis in Singapore

James and Daniel’s journey is a powerful reminder of what young athletes can achieve when passion meets the right environment. From fun and fundamentals to competition and performance, their growth has been shaped by:

• engaging tennis programs for kids

• supportive and patient coaches

• structured long-term development pathways

• a family that loves playing together

Their story is an inspiration to any young player, or parent, wondering what’s possible.

Does your family have a sport that brings you together?