Namibian tennis sensation Connor van Schalkwyk has signed with the tennis team of Old Dominion University in America, where he will undergo further development and compete for the varsity side in the upcoming 2023/24 season.
The university announced Van Schalkwyk’s arrival this week on its social media platforms, with the head of men’s tennis Dominik Mueller saying the young Namibian tennis ace will form part of their 2023/24 recruiting class.
“Connor comes from an outstanding family and we couldn’t be more excited to make him a member of our team. His international experience and success speak for itself and will help him and our team for immediate success next season. But first and foremost, Connor is a great human being that bought into our vision and wants to get better on the tennis court. We are excited to help him fulfill his potential,” said Mueller.
Van Schalkwyk is currently ranked within the top 36 on the International Tennis Federation (ITF) World Junior rankings and continues to shine on the international stage.
He has participated in all four Junior Grand Slam tournaments this year and has won five ITF World Junior tournament titles. He won the African Junior Championship in 2021, following that up with a runner-up showing this year. He is also a member of the Namibian Davis Cup team.
On his part, the 17-year-old said he is excited about the many opportunities that lay ahead for his career and believes he made the right choice by joining forces with the Old Dominion University team, as they rank amongst the best varsity teams in the USA.
“I chose Old Dominion University because not only do I think I can develop a lot as a tennis player, but also as a person. The coaches, players and just everyone that I met here were incredible. From that moment, I felt like this is the right place for me. Another bonus I have is playing alongside my brother (Codie), which even motivates me more for us to do big things together here at the university,” said Van Schalkwyk.
The Old Dominion University is composed of 18 inter-collegiate athletic teams and is located in Norfolk, Virginia, USA.
The men’s sports teams include baseball, basketball, football, golf, sailing, football, swimming, and tennis, while the women’s sports include basketball, field hockey, lacrosse, golf, sailing, football, swimming, tennis, rowing, and volleyball.
– Additional info: Old Dominion University Twitter