Father-Son Duo Chasing Tennis Dreams as Coach-Student Combo
With zero complaints, Chandrashekar B S is embracing the twin duties to his son and student Thanush Shekar – a budding tennis player from Karnataka. The duo is chasing tennis dreams together, with Chandrashekar serving as both father and coach.
A Unique Coaching Dynamic
Chandrashekar, who has been coaching tennis for over a decade, decided to take on the role of personal coach for his son Thanush. The arrangement has been challenging but rewarding, as they navigate the fine line between parental expectations and professional coaching. According to Chandrashekar, the key is maintaining discipline on the court while preserving their father-son bond off it.
Thanush Shekar's Rising Career
Thanush Shekar, a promising junior player from Karnataka, has been making strides in state-level tournaments. He trains under his father's guidance for several hours daily, focusing on technique, fitness, and mental toughness. The young player has already won multiple district-level titles and aims to represent India at the national level.
Balancing Roles
Chandrashekar admits that separating the coach and father roles is not always easy. "On the court, I am his coach first. I push him hard and correct his mistakes. But once we leave the court, I am his father, and we talk about everything else," he said. Thanush echoes this sentiment, saying that his father's dual role has helped him improve faster because of the trust and understanding between them.
Impact on Family Life
The arrangement has also brought the family closer. Chandrashekar's wife supports them by managing schedules and ensuring Thanush balances academics with sports. The family has made sacrifices, including early morning practices and weekend tournaments, but they are united in their goal. Thanush has shown remarkable dedication, often practicing for two hours before school and another two hours in the evening.
Future Aspirations
Thanush aims to compete in national junior championships and eventually turn professional. Chandrashekar believes his son has the potential to succeed if he continues to work hard. "The journey is long, but we are taking it one step at a time. My dream is to see him play for India," Chandrashekar added.
