With the advent of amazing websites such as MySpace, Hi5 and Facebook, it has become extremely easy to stay in touch with friends. Not only are these programs great for keeping tabs on current friends, but they are incredible in terms of reconnecting with old friends and acquaintances as well as forging new friendships.

Shawn in the middle with the ATA Tennis Stars

Almost anyone who is computer savvy has caught on to this new phenomena and has created an account and begun an odyssey of nostalgia through the internet. Through Facebook, I have been able to find friends from high school, University and elsewhere. Also, when I meet somebody new, one of the questions mutually asked is: “Are you on Facebook?”
Through these mediums, Shawn Farrokh was able to find me and get in touch. Shawn is definitely a blast from the past as he and I were very close: while growing up in north Florida. Shawn is currently in Anguilla with his family for a week long vacation and through these social networks we were able to plan time to “hang out” and catch up. The friendship developed with Shawn as an adolescent was formed in a much more distinct way than others. He and I competed against each other on the Florida junior tennis circuit for many years. The junior circuit is an extremely competitive environment in which many rivalries and bad sportsmanship were easily developed. Shawn and I were different as we were respectful of our opponents, never cheated and worked harder than the rest. We had a reason for working so hard though. He and I started playing much later than the other players and for that reason we were constantly playing catch up and never made it to later rounds in tournaments as we would eventually have to play an extremely experienced player.
He and I also shared another trait that brought us close: ambition. We both would have given anything to be the best tennis player in the world and, because of our drive, we decided that we should train together. Although he lived an hour and fifteen minutes away, I would drive to Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, and train for hours with Shawn. Our sessions would be intense and we fed on each others drive to improve and be the best. We finished strong in Florida, ranked in the top fifty. Consequently, we both went on to play college tennis and once again rekindled our friendship as Shawn played at a university only 30 minutes away. And yet, here we are again in Anguilla playing tennis.
It is not my intention to bore the readers with small details about a certain friendship, but it is necessary to paint a clear picture about certain friendships we make. Obviously, Shawn and I are drawn to each other as we have similar attributes and desires. It is important that young people find “good” friends. Good friends will help you through the toughest moments, will stick by your side and, most importantly, be a positive influence.

Although Shawn is on vacation, he has already given up his time to come to the Anguilla Tennis Academy and coach some of our best juniors. He enjoyed himself so much, he has decided to return again and play with some of the advanced tennis stars. It has been great catching up with him and even more amazing to see him interact so well with the children.

Friendships should be life-long endeavours and there are many rewards to be reaped through great relationships. After all these years, Shawn and I are still close and nothing has changed. To the youth, look for these types of life-long friends who can help and shape you into the great person you will become. Try your best to stay away from the negative friends who take pleasure in bringing you down and provide nothing for your own personal enhancement. To Shawn, Juliana, Jacky, Willy and Magda, have a great vacation.

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