Destined to SOAR.
This interview series is aimed at celebrating, recognising and promoting the incredible talent and ferocious courage of our young women of tomorrow.
Let's recognise the magnificent effort of girls' in sport across all codes!
Today our interview is with Elise Virr, Soar Active had the privilege to catch up with Elise and chat about her love for tennis.
1. Elise, tell us about your early life?
Elise: I was born in the UK and moved to Australia at 6 months old. I have always been energetic and motivated.
2. So how did you discover tennis?
Elise: In Kindergarten we practiced a lot of different sports, I fell in love with Tennis from the start.
3. What was your next step?
Elise: My Mum and Dad bought a garden tennis kit and we hit it everyday. I then asked them if I could have lessons- I don’t think they knew what they were in for. I started having a lesson once a week and then squads. I started to enter tournaments and it grew from there.
4. How do you balance your competitive training and managing school?
Elise: I’m incredibly fortunate to have a wonderful school in St Hilda’s. They allow me to take time off to train and compete. During my recovery and down time I’m committed to making sure all my school work is up to date, so that I do not fall behind. Having an education is extremely important.
5. What do you do in your downtime?
Elise: I love to spend time with my Little Sister and family. We have lots of fun - I also make sure I rest properly. I love to shop too! But mostly play other sports.
6. What makes you feel happy, brave, and strong?
Elise: When I play well I feel extremely happy, regardless of the result, yes I play to win but if I loose and I have played well it’s a positive for me. You have to be brave on the court and take risks- without this you will find it difficult to win in tough matches.
7. Tell us about a special moment in the last year?
Elise: I represented QLD in Canberra- winning the Bruce Cup as QLD captain Was an extremely proud moment. The speech I made didn’t really seem real till a few weeks later.
8. What is your ultimate goal?
Elise: I want to be world No.1 and win multiple grand slams.
9. What's your favourite attribute about yourself?
Elise: My drive and good nature. Tennis is a tough sport and you get a lot of haters when you’re successful- stay true to yourself and never let them bring you down.
10. What would you say to other young females about following their dreams?
Elise: Believe in yourself- never ever give up - if you believe in yourself and you’re willing to work hard and take the bad times with the good- you can make it.
11. What has tennis taught you about life?
Elise: Life is tough, it’s full of ups and downs with plenty of emotional experiences- you need to stay strong, focus on what you want to achieve and always stay positive.
Follow her journey on Instragram
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Know another inspiring young teen or want to be featured?
Email us at hq@soaractive.com with your story.
