‘It Is Difficult To Be A Dad And Coach’

 Tunde Ogungbesan, is the father and coach of England-born Nigerian player, Lolade Ogungbesan. He told OLUSEGUN ABIDOYE the challenges he faces while discharging the two dynamic responsibilities and other issues on his daughter’s career.

You are a Nigerian based in the United Kingdom, how do feel about Nigeria’s environment?

Nigeria is very warm compared to United Kingdom. The people are splendid and warm. The weather is not friendly to me and my daughter. During her games, she couldn’t cope with the harsh climate which made it difficult for her to put up her best. She lost consciousness after a match because of the harsh weather. Before the game, she did not eat and drink well and it was very sunny. Before we knew it, she collapsed, but I’m happy to be here again with her.

What was going through your mind when she collapsed?

I did not witness it to be honest, but someone told me about it. It was not easy at all. I was very worried about her health, but I thank God that everything is okay now.

Were you here in the last edition of the Governor’s Cup?

She was not here last year. She was in Abuja between March and April last year for African Junior Championship. This is her first time of playing in the Governor’s Cup and first time to be in Lagos State.

Do you ever imagine your daughter becoming the world number one?

Yes of course. If my daughter and I do not believe that she could become world number one in tennis, she would not be playing the beautiful game. I always imagine her becoming the world number one in WTA ranking. She believes in me and my words and I hope to see her topping the women’s ranking chart very soon.

How do you balance these two responsibilities?

It is difficult sometimes. When she is on the court, I’m her coach and when she is off the court I’m her dad and everyone is happy. None is disturbing the other and I enjoy discharging these responsibilities.

Well, I’m not her full time coach, I only train her when she goes for tournament. She stays in Barcelona, Spain where her coach lives; it is only when she comes back home that I take over because I also know how to play the game and I really love it.

How old is she and what is her strength?

She is just 16 years old. She is catching up with the game very well. Her strength lies in her service and she is very strong from the back of the court. She can play with her fore and back hands. Her returns are also good and accurate.