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Rao is instant success on tennis court

On January 26, 2002, freshman Akshay Rao won his first tennis match on American ground as a member of the Binghamton men’s team. Rao is the top-ranked individual tennis player on the Junior Team in India, but he is working on his undergraduate degree here at Binghamton.

Rao had many offers to play for different schools in America. He decided to come to Binghamton, however, because of Coach Michael Starke.

“I really liked the coach. I didn’t know the team, I didn’t know anyone.” Rao said. “But when I asked a question to Coach, he always responded immediately.”

If Rao decided against studying abroad, he would be attending college in India. But he wouldn’t be able to continue playing tennis.

“In India, college tennis is not big at all.” he said. “I had a choice- college in India or come here to play tennis and go to college. And I knew I could find a balance between tennis and school. I was hoping change would help me improve my game. And it has.”

Coach Starke found Rao through a friend who runs a scouting service, and both the team and Starke were hoping that Rao would be able to fulfill the first singles spot. Rao finished the season strong with a record of 14-5 at first singles, 9-4 playing doubles, and has earned all-conference honors.

“He exceeded expectations,” Starke said. “And he did so in an unassuming and humble manner, displaying respect and class at all times. Rao has a steep learning curve, an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and perfection, and simply the best attitude.”

Starke expects that in these next three years, Rao will continue to improve.

“He is an amazing tennis talent and player already,” Starke said, “but he is going to get so much better. I think his potential is boundless.”

Although the tennis concepts are the same, Rao found that here, tennis is a different type of game.

“In India” he said, “ I’ve never played on a team sport. I never expected how important I’d be to the team.” Rao said. “Here, the whole team wants you to win because each point is so important.”

It will be difficult for Rao to go back to India in four years after he graduates from Binghamton.

“Here, the whole team is behind you, the coaches, and families.” He said. “Sometimes, I get mental lapses and I need someone to push me a little.”

Rao won’t go back to New Delhi, India until Christmas break. Even though he misses home a lot, he is able to see familiar faces here in the States.

“A lot of my friends have gone on to play tennis.” He said. “A lot have come to the US too, like me.” Rao’s teammates joke with him because he knows so many of the opposing players. “I know at least one person on every team we’ve played. It’s nice.” he said.

Rao is in the School of Management at Binghamton University, but has yet to decide a major. After graduating from Binghamton in 2005, Rao will try going professional.

“I’ll give it a shot,” he said.