EVERYONE is looking forward to new things in the coming new year, and for young national tennis player Gavin Lewis it will be his new start at Coppin State University to which he had earlier this year been awarded a scholarship to attend. 

The former St Stanislaus College student is expected to travel to the United States of America early next month to begin his studies for a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice at the prestigious institution. Due to his years as

one of Guyana’s leading junior table tennis player Lewis was able to receive a NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) scholarship.
His scholarship was largely orchestrated by overseas-based Guyanese Diwani Lewis, head coach at the University which Gavin is expected to attend.
It was back in 2010 that Lewis, who is not related to Gavin, got his job and instantly thought to use this opportunity to help develop some of the talent from his home country.
“It all got started a few years ago when I got the job as head tennis coach at Coppin State University. One of my main goals was to provide opportunities for our local players (in Guyana) – something I thought was lacking in Guyana.” Diwani shared in an interview with Chronicle Sport.
Diwani was first here a few years ago scouting out several eligible players, but some fell short of the criteria, even then he had noted the capabilities of Gavin, who was, at the time, too young for a University scholarship and he explained to Gavin the possibilities that could await him if he developed his talent.
“I immediately realised how talented he was and a line of communication was established. I informed him of what was required in order to be admitted to Coppin State and he surpassed all expectations. Upon his admittance, I had his scholarship drafted, signed and shipped to him. “ Diwani said.
For his part Gavin is enthusiastically looking forward to this new start, and is happy about what this means for the future of tennis, as does his coach Shelly Daly-Ramdyhan who has worked with Gavin since he first began playing tennis.
“It will expand the sport more, this will bring more awareness to the sport, and I hope this (scholarship) is an eye-opener for the authorities to see the talent that we have. And as we track his progress more and more persons will become aware of the opportunities that tennis has.” Ramdyhan told Chronicle Sport.
Noted for his irreproachable discipline and dedication, Gavin was very confident in his ability to meet the criteria for the scholarship, both academically and athletically, and is now glad that his hard work has paid off.
“I knew I would’ve been accepted and I’m elated about this accomplishment. My grades throughout high school were really good. I passed my SAT exam. I am a high school graduate and I’m good at tennis. Balancing both was tough, but look where it got me today.” an enthusiastic Gavin shared.
Gavin wrote the regional Caribbean Secondary Examination Certificate (CSEC) back in 2012, gaining passes in all 12 of his subjects, walking away with one distinction, six grade two and five grade three.
After settling in, in January, Gavin’s first match is set for February 21. Gavin now follows in the footsteps of former junior tennis greats such as Avernelle Holder.