Eryn Cayetano
“Ever since I was little, I’ve thought of First Break Academy as my second home. I’ve been going to First Break since I was 13 years old, and I am forever grateful for everything they have done for me and my family. There is no other place that I have been to that cares for their students as much as them. The amazing coaching staff taught me more than the game of tennis. I have learned the importance of hard work and dedication, and how to balance school work with tennis. Currently attending USC on a tennis scholarship, I believe the skills taught at the Academy are what made my (tennis) dreams into a reality. Reflecting on my years at First Break, I know that without them, I would not be where I am today.”
Nnena Nadozie
I was born and raised in Inglewood, California. I started playing tennis at around the age of five. Tennis has always been part of my life, so being able to play tennis in college is an honor. However, I did go through a few bumps in the road to get to this point. During my high school years, I didn’t play as much competitive tennis. This of course made me a bit worried that I would not be able to play college tennis. I was introduced to Ramp/First Break Academy and with the help of the most caring and professional coaching staff, they helped me achieve my goal. I was able to get just the right amount of coaching/caring/and guidance from First Break! Through training and providing me with the right tools, I was able to play tennis at San Diego State University.
“We discovered FBA when we moved from other state to Carson CA about 3 years ago. Kai and Lani started learning tennis in FBA and found it as home since then. In walking distance to the courts, it gives us lots of convenience and fun experiences. Thanks to FBA’s inspiring and caring, they both have improved so much on their tennis skill (not knowing how to hit a ball to wining matches), as well as built relationship with coaches and team mates. FBA is one of the key reasons that we love living in the new community.” - Sunny S.
“First break has given my daughter a platform that has helped her become more confident on and off the court, she has learned to set high goals and view her errors as growth opportunities. My little tennis player has built wonderful friendships whom motivate one another to succeed, as a parent it’s extremely beautiful to see.” - Itzel Z.
“First Break Academy is an excellent program for young tennis players. The coaches are experienced, knowledgeable, and create a positive atmosphere that keeps players motivated. My daughter has made great progress in her skills and become a better athlete overall, and has made some great friends through the program.” - Govind M.
“First Break has helped me grow a lot as a person. When I was struggling with my homework they always had Monique help me and other players because she's good at teaching. When Covid hit Monique was still there to help me along the way and stay focused when I got lazy. First Break is like an academics & sports camp combined. They have very nice coaches and have very fun events in the summer like water balloon fights and pizza parties with my friends. First Break tennis gave me the privilege to play with Maria Sharapova and Nicole Gibbs. These past 7 years with First Break have been great! In the beginning, I used to be so bad I didn't even know how to hit the ball or couldn't even run to the ball either but now I can rally fast and can hit powerful serves. They have made me the best tennis player I could be and I'm very happy to be with them. Coach Jerome always reminds me to move my feet and play all the way through the game (don't give them the win easily and to have fun). Coach Bettina always tells us “in life we don't have wins and losses we have wins and lessons. Thank you First Break.” - Rikki W. (Age 12)
“I am a 13 year old tennis player that trains at first break academy. I have been playing at first break academy for around 2 and a half years. Ever since I started playing at first break they always supported me and welcomed me with open arms. In the first week I knew that first break was going to make me a better tennis player because the coaches always give you compliments and tell you what you can do better the next time. I have made relationships with all my coaches because they always make you feel superior. At first break the coaches are very positive and they always want you to do your very best. For me I stay after class and I hit with my coaches, so that I can improve my skills and leave with a positive mindset. I am very grateful that my coaches take time out of their schedule to improve my tennis game. At first break I made friendships. All the kids at first break are wholesome and obliging. In my opinion, first break is a place to improve and develop your tennis game. First break makes you feel accepted and elated. When I look back at my tennis game before I know first break improved my game entirely. First break is one big family that always wants you to improve not only in tennis but in life.” - Hector G.
