VENISE CHAN WING-YAU The 15-year-old played a huge role in Hong Kong's qualification for the Junior Federation Cup world finals later this year in Barcelona. She won six consecutive singles matches as the SAR's under-16 tennis team beat New Zealand earlier this month. How does it feel to be on the first Hong Kong tennis team to reach the Junior Federation Cup world finals? I'm very excited, because I have a chance to win a world title. I'm excited for Hong Kong to be able to compete on an international level. What have been the most difficult moments in this tournament? A: Playing against Australia and New Zealand was exciting. Australia were the best of the six teams we played against. I was very nervous competing for third place against New Zealand, the match that decided whether or not we would go to Barcelona. How important is this tournament for Hong Kong tennis? It is a good start for Hong Kong to raise their level. We have never done this before and now people will realise that Hong Kong tennis is actually good. How long have you been playing the sport? I started to play at the age of seven. What do you do other than play tennis? I'm in grade 10 and often go online to study. I started at this online school last October. In September I was still going to Marymount Secondary School. What are some of your personal interests? I like to dance to jazz and hip hop. Also, I like to read books, mostly detective and horror stories. What is your greatest motivation to win the Junior Fed Cup finals? Doing my best for Hong Kong and knowing that our coach is watching and encouraging us. Of course, playing for my parents and the Hong Kong Tennis Association is a motivation, too.
