Nate’s First Tournament
Nate is playing in her first tennis tournament against a much better opponent.
Nate had practised for months. Today was her first tennis tournament. As she stepped onto the court, her hands were sweaty and her heart was thumping. Across the net stood Danny, the club champion.
‘Just play your game,’ said her coach, Toby the turtle. ‘Enjoy it.’ Nate nodded. She bounced the ball three times, tossed it high, and served. THWACK! It flew over the net.
Danny was fast and strong. Point after point went to Danny. Nate lost the first set, 6-2. She wanted to cry. But in the second set, she took a deep breath and tried a new plan.
She ran for every ball. She won three points in a row! The crowd cheered. Though Danny won the match in the end, Nate had played her best tennis ever.
At the net, Danny shook her hand. ‘That was a great match,’ said Danny. ‘You’ll be champion one day.’ Nate grinned. ‘I’ll see you next year!’
The little lesson
Courage and effort matter more than the score.
Let’s talk about it
- How did Nate feel before the match?
- What did Danny do at the end?
Finish stories to collect Nate as a sticker in your Sticker Book.
More Sports & Games stories
Vik Learns to Swim
Vik is afraid of the deep water, but a patient friend helps him take one little step at a time.
Pass It On, Zara!
Zara is the last runner in the relay. Her team is behind, and the baton drops!
Dexter Learns to Swim
Dexter is afraid of the deep water, but a patient friend helps him take one little step at a time.
You might also like
Maya’s Boots with a Story
In the attic, Maya finds a pair of dusty old boots with a name inside.
Zara’s Old Boots in the Attic
In the attic, Zara finds a pair of dusty old boots with a name inside.
Kira and the Hidden Door
Kira and a friend discover a hidden door in the attic. What waits behind it?