Success stories.

Pratik began training with Coach Andreu at age 10 with a 0 UTR, and from the start his humility, curiosity, and work ethic set him apart — studying pros, asking sharp questions, and giving full effort in every practice. That foundation was tested when a knee injury kept him off the court for six months right before his freshman year, yet he still finished that season among the top three players in his county. His sophomore year was a breakthrough: he took the #1 singles spot on his high school team, helped Clarkstown South upset the reigning state champions, reached the Section 1 quarterfinals, and racked up multiple USTA Level 6 wins.

That success has carried him into the next stage of his tennis career: Pratik has committed to Stevens Institute of Technology, where he'll compete at the NCAA level while studying Quantitative Finance. At AK Tennis Academy, we're proud of the player he's become — and even more proud of the young man he is. We look forward to following his collegiate career and are excited to see all that he will accomplish in the years ahead.

Lauren Perez’s story is a shining example of dedication, perseverance, and growth. She joined the AK Tennis Academy at 14, just before trying out for her high school tennis team. Although she didn’t make varsity her freshman year, Lauren’s commitment to improving never wavered. Starting tennis at 12, she proved that even with a later start, great success is possible. She trained consistently, asked thoughtful questions, and began competing in USTA tournaments, even as initial results were modest. Her hard work over the summer paid off when she earned a spot on the varsity team as a sophomore, contributing to a strong season in doubles play.

Lauren’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the rewards of consistent effort. Her story showcases how tennis not only fosters athletic success but also instills life lessons in perseverance, leadership, and dedication. Today, Lauren attends Sacred Heart University, where her primary focus has shifted to her studies. She continues to compete at the club level, keeping tennis a meaningful part of her university experience while prioritizing her academic goals. Her journey shows how the sport can remain part of a player’s life as their goals and priorities evolve. AK Tennis Academy is proud to have been part of her growth and achievements, both on and off the court.

Ryan’s tennis journey with Coach Andreu began in 10th grade, just two years after he first picked up the sport. He did not have a UTR ranking. Throughout high school, he balanced his passion for tennis with other commitments, including basketball season, and trained whenever his schedule allowed. He participated in lessons and clinics, steadily building his skills and understanding of the game. His commitment to improvement, combined with structured training, helped him take his game to new levels year after year.

Now competing at the collegiate level as a key player for Moravian College, with a 7 UTR and a current collegiate record is 25-3 in singles matches and 10-2 in doubles, Ryan's journey serves as an inspiration for young athletes looking to take their game to the next stage. His experience underscores the importance of consistent effort and quality training in achieving personal and athletic goals. Ryan’s story is a testament to the impact of dedication and perseverance. Despite facing the challenges of juggling academics and other sports, his passion for tennis never wavered. The skills and discipline he developed through years of training have prepared him for the collegiate level, and the sport has become an important part of his life.