August Zhao & Coach Chris Cheung

Five years of coaching, commitment, and a partnership that's growing stronger with every match.

Some of the best partnerships in tennis begin with a first lesson.

August Zhao was just six years old when he first stepped onto the court with Coach Chris Cheung at The Tennis School. Five years later, that partnership has helped produce something worth celebrating: an impressive run of U12 tournament victories, including five singles titles across the Transition Tour and Provincial Circuit in September and October.

What began with learning the fundamentals has grown into a shared commitment to improving August's game, one lesson, one match, and one season at a time.

More Than a Coach

There's something special about having a coach who's been there from the beginning.

Chris has watched August grow from a young beginner into a competitive junior player. Over the years, he's come to understand August's strengths, his challenges, and when to push a little harder or offer encouragement.

That familiarity builds trust. And trust matters, especially as the game becomes more demanding.

Their training has evolved from learning basic strokes to developing match strategy, mental toughness, and the confidence to compete. Along the way, they've built a relationship that goes beyond what happens during a lesson.

A Season Worth Celebrating

August's hard work has been paying off on the tournament circuit.

In September and October, he captured five Boys' U12 singles titles at Ontario Transition Tour and Provincial Circuit events:

• PRC Eglinton Flats Provincial Circuit — October 9–11

• PRC Brampton Provincial Circuit — October 2–4

• PRC Mississauga Nike Transition Tour — September 25–27

• PRC Brampton Transition Tour — September 18–20

• PRC Mississauga Transition Tour — September 4–6

Five titles in just over a month is an accomplishment worth recognizing. But behind those victories are years of practice, patience, and the willingness to keep learning.

And while the trophies are certainly worth celebrating, they're only part of August's story.

Growing With the Game

Progress in tennis rarely happens overnight.

For August, it has meant years of consistent coaching, year-round training, and gradually taking on greater challenges as his skills developed.

From his earliest lessons to more advanced competitive training, The Tennis School has provided an environment where he could continue building on what he'd learned.

Just as importantly, he's had people supporting him along the way. Coach Chris, fellow players, and the club community have all been part of that journey.

It's a reminder that developing a young athlete isn't simply about producing results. It's about building confidence, discipline, resilience, and a lasting appreciation for the game.

The Next Chapter

With several tournament titles already behind him, August has his sights set on even bigger challenges, including his ambition to become a provincial champion.

There's still plenty of tennis ahead, more lessons to learn, and undoubtedly a few tough matches along the way.

But whatever comes next, August and Coach Chris have already built something worth celebrating: five years of commitment, progress, and a partnership that continues to grow.

Congratulations, August and Coach Chris! We're proud of what you've accomplished together and look forward to seeing where the game takes you next.

Every Player Starts Somewhere

August's journey began with a first lesson. Your child's could, too.

Explore our Junior Tennis Programs and discover how The Tennis School helps young players develop their skills, confidence, and love for the game.