Two talented young athletes from Manado Independent School (MIS), Richelle Lisungan and Eunice Politon, both 11th-grade students, achieved a remarkable feat by securing 3rd place in the U16 singles category at the 2024 Minahasa Open Tennis Tournament. The event, held from November 15-17 in Tondano, drew participation from professional tennis players across North Sulawesi. Richelle and Eunice had to navigate several competitive rounds, facing tough opponents with diverse strategies. Despite tennis being a challenging sport and not widely popular in Indonesian school circles, both students showcased their hard-earned skills and techniques from extensive training sessions.
In the preliminary rounds, Richelle and Eunice delivered impressive performances, marked by powerful shots and exceptional accuracy. The competition grew fiercer as they advanced to the quarter-finals. However, thanks to thorough preparation and the guidance of MIS tennis coach Fresya Lumi, both athletes demonstrated strategic gameplay, ultimately earning them a spot on the championship podium with a third-place finish.
Eunice expressed her gratitude and shared how she balances multiple commitments, including academics and extracurricular activities. “It’s a miracle I was able to balance everything—from DBL dance, academics, being an aspiring student association candidate, and the recent tennis competition. I wouldn’t have been able to tackle everything without God’s help and guidance. God gave me strength through all practices and long tests, which pushed me to keep going. I’m thankful for God’s grace, my parents’ support, and my amazing tennis coach,” she said.
Richelle also reflected on the training that prepared her for success. “The preparation involved playing matches with my teammates and coaches. For future tournaments, I hope to improve and play my best,” she shared. The MIS community provided strong support during the tournament, with classmates, teachers, and family cheering them on. This encouragement helped Richelle and Eunice remain motivated throughout the intense competition.
Their achievements at the 2024 Minahasa Open Tennis Tournament highlight the immense potential of Richelle and Eunice in the world of sports. This victory serves as an inspiration for other young athletes to continue striving for excellence in various fields.
