Esteem was fortunate to catch Rishan Kuruppu for a quick yet comprehensive interview. A true mover and shaker who is a proud son of Sri Lanka, scour through this insightful article, and log onto www.rishankuruppu.com to get a perceptive look into an extraordinary life.
Why tennis and how did you fall in love with the game? Please plot out the journey to where you are today professionally?
When I was five years old I moved to Vancouver, Canada and for my sixth birthday I asked my parents for a tennis racquet. Tennis found me and I really enjoyed just hitting the ball against a wall. I never depended on anyone to play with me so the wall never let me down; it was three years of fun, challenges and patience. The love for tennis was ignited when I realized there was nothing else I rather do!
My tennis journey began at an early six years old playing for fun. When I was nine years old I took my first tennis lesson which was with a kind, patient, old school mentality coach who laid the foundational fundamentals for where I am today. From ten years on I started to play tournaments, which began with disappointments, but fueled my dedication to improvement and work ethic. Not too long after I became a Provincial Champion in every age group to top five ranking in Canada. I competed internationally and was among the top 300 juniors in world. I was fortunate to travel around the world at an early age and followed that up with a scholarship to Division 1 Middle Tennessee State University who at the time was ranked top 25 in the United States by the NCAA. After graduation with a bachelors in finance my decision was to become a professional coach and serve the game that has brought about meaning to my life.
Who is your favorite player of all time, and why?
My favorite player of all time is Roger Federer. His consistency, passion, professionalism and artistic style of play embody the beauty and grace of his exceptional talents.
I also admire that regardless of all the trophies and achievements in his career; he plays the game for sheer love, fun and continuous improvement to perfect his craft.
What’s the best court you’ve played on and/or wish to play on one day?
I have been fortunate to play on all surfaces and great courts. Monte Carlo Masters series center court was one of my highlights as it encompasses pristine landscape and scenic views. I would love to one day play on center court at Wimbledon.
List your achievements thus far; and your hopes and dreams for the future.
Some of my career achievements:
– Director of Tennis: Roton Point Club ( Connecticut, USA )
– Director at Proform Tennis Academy ( New York, USA )
– Principal: Reevent LLC ( Management / Leadership Services )
– Author and contributor for New York Tennis magazine
– Tennis Lifestyle Creator for Equinox ( Greenwich, Connecticut)
– Nationally recognized and featured on USTA magazine 2010
The future has me creating a leadership and tennis foundation to help those who may not have the resources. I also plan on writing a book detailing my coaching philosophy. My passion is to help people develop their real potential.
What advice would you give youngsters who are wondering whether a sporting life is a rewarding endeavor (noting the fact that many generations have opted for the proverbial corporate life because sports was not rewarding).
My advice to youngsters is that all things are rewarding if you give your time and heart especially in sports. Making an impact and helping others in sport or corporate life and being mindful of your personal journey is winning! I truly believe that time well spent on others is a life well lived.
How do you chill out? Any favorite restaurants? Favorite hobbies besides tennis?
I like to relax by spending time with my wife Esmeralda and son Oliver. I love listening to music and walks in nature or anywhere near the ocean. Favorite food is Sri Lankan food I especially enjoy a little extra spice. Favorite restaurants are Tao in New York City and Barcelona in Connecticut. I am a huge hockey fan and follow the Vancouver Canucks with passion.
Tell us what a day in the life of Rishan Kuruppu is like.
A day in the life of Rishan Kuruppu starts with waking up at 6 am.
It is a very simply structured routine every day I call the big four:
- Get my high intensity workout done
- Read for 1 hour / Reflect 30 min
- Eat and sleep well
- All my appointments are like family I give them my undivided attention.
Everything above gets scheduled around my family and work but it always gets done. I look at everything with a positive perspective and lots of laughter.