Akio Silvosa (right) receives the gold medal in the Red Ball 8-under division of the Milo- Wilson-Philta Tennis 10s tournament during the awarding ceremony at Zentro Sports and Events Place in Bulacan on Dec. 30, 2024. Also in photo are (from left) International Tennis Federation Junior Tennis Initiative national coordinator for Philippines Gerhard Mamawal, coach Rovinald Puntillar and silver medalist Alamela Cacho. (Contributed photo)
Even at a young age, Akio Silvosa knows what he wants: To become the country’s No. 1 tennis player.
Determined to fulfill his dream, the seven-year-old Silvosa joined a tournament in Olongapo City in April last year but failed to make the podium.
The loss did not dampen his spirit.
He spent more time on the court improving his game and finally won the gold medal in the 2024 Milo-Wilson-Philta Tennis 10s division at Malolos Sports Complex in Bulacan on Dec. 30, 2024.
“I’m so happy because the practice paid off,” Silvosa said in an interview on Saturday. “My ambition is to become No. 1 in the Philippines.”
The Grade 1 student at the House of Achievers Montesorri Inc. in Bataan hails from Lubao, Pampanga.
His elder sister, Akisha Faith, also plays tennis.
“I heard there’s an upcoming event in Olongapo this month. I may join it,” he said.
Silvosa is coached by his father, Christopher, and Glenn de Leon.
Elythia Comia of Cavite (9-under unisex Orange Ball) and Archelous Parungao (10-under Green Ball) also won the Wilson-Philta tournament.
Al Zayeed Baid and Dane Basijan have crowned champions in the 18-Under category; Jeremiah Labasano in the boys’ 16-Under; Kaitlin Elem, girls’ 16-Under; Jfsky Berille, boys. 14-Under); Daniello Ramoso, boys’ 12-Under; and Cassie Briel Aquino, girls’ 12-Under. (PNA)
