It’s another beautiful weekend to celebrate some of our amazing coaches in the country with our bi-weekly Know Your Coach series.
Today, we celebrate Madam Stella Epegu, a Port Harcourt-baser tactician who’s among the best in the country.
She spoke with Nigeria Tennis Live about how she’s been coaching for over 13 years, and how some of her players have not only hit national prominence, but also embarked on other endeavours.
Excerpts:
Name: Stella Kinnobor Epegu
When did you start coaching? 2007, September
Players coached to national prominence: Godsgift Timbra, Micheal Amos, Kesiye Maxwell. David Dawariye.
Most of the girls chose to branch off academically.
Fortune Aniso: Studying Law; Godfrey Okoye: University Enugu; Amiyefore Jim Jaja: UNIPORT; Ngowari Jim-jaja: UST PH; Emmanuel Dawariye: Law, NDU Bayelsa, to mention a few.
Coaching certification: ITF Level 1
Greatest ambition with coaching: My greatest ambition is to see my players wearing green white green in international tournment, and to build a well established FOUNDATION in Nigeria- in partnership with International body.
When will a Nigerian win the Grand Slam? I see it far, but I strongly believe it achievable.
How’s NTF helping with your coaching? For now, they’re trying their best.
Proudest moment? My proudest moment in coaching is seeing my beginner able to play effortless backhand, forehand drive, with good foot walk, and during the long vacation been able to organise their “CATCH THEM YOUNG” Free Clinic.
Favourite colour: Blue
Favourite food: Real Okro soup and garri
Favourite music/artiste: Christian music – Sinach