Yoan Naydenov '25 Recruiting Profile

Beneath the Surface of Change
 

During the year 2019 when the leaves started to change their colors, I began my new school year at the Mouratoglou Tennis Academy, in Nice, France—a chapter in my life that directly corresponded with the fall season due to the fact that I was completely going to change my way of seeing the world just like the leaves were changing their color at the time. The day that I parted ways, with my family I entered a new world and faced a sea of new unfamiliar faces. 

At exactly 7:15 a.m. We academy players rushed out of the boarding house and started filling the tennis courts like a crowd of ants leaving their nest. The sun hadn’t risen yet so I couldn't see the next step I was taking. I could feel the wind blowing fiercely around me and I could feel the chill air slipping into my jacket. At my assigned court, there was waiting a tall figure standing with a commanding presence that demanded respect through mere simplicity. That was the first time I saw Coach Greg. His firm handshake and thoughtful gaze combine scrutiny and support. This moment carried an almost palpable weight of significance. 

He had an impact, on me and became more than a mentor to me. One time when I experienced a setback by losing in the finals of one of the most important tournaments in France. It left me feeling lost and unsure about what to do next. Furthermore, I was away from my home country in a new city, having no close friends or family members who could help me get over these hard times. The next days were all mixed up with disappointment and confusion for me. At that time Coach Greg came into my life and shared some really wise words, with me that reshaped my way of thinking and seeing things; "In life, you will have many disappointments and losses but you have to build character and deal with them because a person's character shapes his destiny". Later I found out that the phrase originated from the philosopher Heraclitus and not, by Greg as I had initially thought, but I still hold on to the belief that he shared those words with me. They hold a special place in my heart.

These words pierced through the shadows of my despair like a ray of sunshine. Brought me a sense of clarity and purpose. They motivated me to see my challenges not as setbacks, but as chances to grow stronger and more resilient. This change, in perspective, guided me back, to my goals. Propelled me towards development and success.

Whenever I encounter a situation now and then, in my life journey I always remember the advice given by him. I take a moment to think about the experiences I've been through. Moments that have helped shape my character and make me who I am today. These obstacles are not barriers. Rather important milestones that lead me closer, to success. A realization that I hold dear and carry with me every day. 

In the face of challenges I've faced over time, I've found the strength to adjust and continuously pushing ahead has made me see that every obstacle brings a chance, for growth. As I move forward on my journey I bring along insights, from experiences and an optimistic view of what the future holds. I am constantly inspired by the enduring wisdom of a mentor who has left a mark on my life. 

I look back on the hurdles that have shaped me seeing them as essential for my growth. Each challenge is another milestone on my journey to success a reminder that progress often arises from adversity. As I grow and learn from these experiences I hold onto these insights that serve as the bedrock, for my aspirations.