Students from CedarBridge Academy have been treated to an inspiring visit from Gavin Manders, the Bermuda tennis ace.

The Island’s No 1 dropped into their Homework Academy, run as part of the Beyond Rugby programme with Family Centre and Bermuda Rugby Football Union, to speak about his journey to the top.

Darren Woods, Family Centre community support worker, said Manders spoke to the teenagers about how he gained a scholarship to Florida Gulf Coast University and how he used adversity to motivate himself to be successful.

He also told the teenagers — many of whom play rugby for Bermuda’s national age-group teams — about how work pays off on and off the court or pitch, and about how honoured he feels to represent the Island across the world, especially when competing in major contests such as the Davis Cup.

“It was a really great experience for the young men involved,” Mr Woods said. “We did a Q and A with Gavin and this gave the players the opportunity to ask specific questions and allowed them to dictate the topics covered.

“To hear about some of the life skills that have been developed through sport, not least learning from and using adversity in a positive way, is an important element we would like our students to embrace.”

Mr Woods said the students learned many valuable lessons, including that hard work beats talent when talent does not work hard, and that persevering when you encounter problems makes success so much better.

“I’d like to thank Gavin for taking the time to come and speak with our players,” he added.