4 October 2018

The path to success

Weronika Kalka

It wasn't love at first sight for Weronika and tennis, but fast forward two years and she has just claimed her second group title in the Wimbledon Park Women's League and is enjoying the game more than ever. 

I only got the tennis bug after giving the game a go for a second time. I first became interested when my work colleague started playing tennis. He was attending group coaching, so I asked if he could bring me some leaflets about the sessions. He did, and I went for 12 weeks or so but didn’t really get hooked. About 6 months later, I decided to try again and for the last 2 years I have been loving tennis. I’m glad I tried again and did not give up.

A friend of mine joined the Sutton league and recommended it to me. She said it was a great way to meet different people and just enjoy playing, and I couldn’t agree more. I initially signed up for Sutton league but then came across the Wimbledon Park Ladies league and this is the one I have been enjoying for the past few months. 

I like that in singles I only rely on myself and it’s completely down to me as to how to play a point. It took me a while to learn how to play a match but I’m on the right path - it’s one thing to have great shots in a friendly rally and another to play a match and not let the nerves take over! It may not be Grand Slam final but when we step on the court we all want to do our best!

I’m a baseline player and I do enjoy hitting my forehand which is my favourite and best shot. I have also learned not to let it get to me when things are not going too well. Tennis is such an unpredictable sport so anything can happen.

I remember my first match well and also how happy and hungry for more I was after my first individual tennis lesson. The biggest reward for me is when others compliment my style and game and notice my improvement. I try to learn from my losses and mistakes, so I make less in the next match.

The league is a great opportunity to meet different tennis enthusiasts and enjoy friendly matches. You come across many different styles which challenges you to find a way to win. We all play differently and there is no one way to do it. Everyone I have played has been so friendly and fun and there are always giggles and good chats. I have definitely made new friends and found other tennis crazy people! I have got so into tennis that I even went on a tennis holiday to Portugal.

I would absolutely encourage others to join. Playing different people will improve your tennis and you will have a fantastic time. I like that the leagues run throughout the whole year, so you can still find someone to hit with in the winter. It’s a great way to keep your tennis going all year long and to have some fun!

If you're inspired to get on court by Weronika, the next round of the Wimbledon Park Women's league starts on the 25th October and you can join here.