For the second edition of In the Bullpen with Raja Sandhu, Raja speaks with Tow Charumilinda, an 11th grader and member of the Montverde Academy Tennis Academy (MAT). Tow shares his inspiration, challenges, goals, and the lessons he has learned through tennis. This interview helps to understand the dedication and commitment required to succeed both academically and athletically at Montverde Academy.

-----------------------------------------------

Raja: What inspired you to start playing tennis?
Tow: I love the fact that it's an individual sport, that the mental aspect is key to success.

Raja: How old were you when you first picked up a racket?
Tow: I started playing at nine years old.

Raja: What do you enjoy most about playing tennis?
Tow: I enjoy the physical and mental intensity that the sport requires.

Raja: What has been the biggest challenge you've faced in tennis so far?
Tow: It is difficult to single out one specific example. The hardest part for the game is definitely reading your opponent's mind and executing a good game plan.
 

Raja: How do you prepare mentally before a match?
Tow: The best mental preparation for me is to imagine myself in a match as well as the situations that could potentially challenge me.
 

Raja: How do you handle pressure during close matches?
Tow: By going one hundred percent at everything and treating every practice as if it is a match.
 

Raja: What part of your game are you currently working to improve?
Tow: I am working on my serve and a more consistent net game.
 

Raja: Do you prefer singles or doubles, and why?
Tow: I prefer singles because I have full control of the outcome.
 

Raja: How do you balance school and tennis practices or tournaments?
Tow: Trying to be ahead of schedule. I believe constant communication with teachers and coaching staff is the key to success.
 

Raja: What has been your most memorable match, and what made it special?
Tow: A match against my best friend last year, a very close game that went to the third set of a tie breaker and I beat him 14-12.
 

Raja: Who is your biggest influence in tennis?
Tow: My biggest influence is Roger Federer.
 

Raja: What is your training routine like during the season?
Tow: We work two hours a day Monday through Friday and we put more emphasis on the fitness level early on in the season.
 

Raja: What goals have you set for yourself this year?
Tow: I want to increase my UTR rating and become a more well rounded player.
 

Raja: What advice would you give to younger players who want to compete in tennis?
Tow: Focus 100% on the things that you can control and understand that everything you do matters. Creating an elite mindset early on will make you more coachable and a better performer.
 

Raja: Do you have any pre-match rituals or favorite music you listen to before playing?
Tow: I listen to relaxing Thai songs, not getting too hyped up before the game so I can stay relaxed throughout the match and clear my mind.

About Raja: Raja is a senior at Montverde Academy and is a member of its baseball team. Upon graduation, Raja plans to attend college where he aspires to play baseball and study medicine.