Peter Dindinger – NMMI Sports Press
Since the age of three, New Mexico Military Institute sophomore Martins Abamu has had a deep love for the game of tennis.
Coming from the Algabado neighborhood in Lagos, Nigeria, tennis can be an expensive sport to play.
Ever since his arrival in America, Abamu's tennis game has excelled exponentially.
"There's big opportunities here in America. Back in Nigeria there's nothing for athletes," Abamu said.
As a freshman, Abamu was a part of the Bronco squad that finished tied for eighth at the 2019 NJCAA Division I National Championships in Tucson, Ariz.
On day one, NMMI had a good start, winning six of its seven matches in singles and doubles play.
Abamu was victorious over Eric Holmes of Hinds Community College by the scores of 6-1 and 6-1.
The second day of competition did not fare well for Abamu as he lost in two sets by the counts of 6-3 and 6-2 to Eastern Florida State College's Adriel Azucey.
Last season was cut short for the Broncos due to the coronavirus pandemic — they competed in five matches, winning their most recent match 4-0 over Southwestern Christian University on March 12.
For this season, Abamu has high expectations.
"I'm hoping we get top four this spring. And of course, if I do well, I can go to a higher level NCAA Division I school," he said.
Getting a chance to attend NMMI on a scholarship for tennis helped Abamu accelerate his passion for the game.
"Back in Nigeria it's not a big thing. It's expensive to get the cleats, racket — everything," he said. "When I (came) to America I got to play in a lot of matches. My game has improved a lot."
Abamu hopes to one day become a tennis coach and open up his own academy in the United States to help teach the game.
Last season's Bronco tennis program boasted four international players. Of the four, three were from Africa.
"Being able to have that connection with Africa is incredible for recruiting," said second-year head Bronco tennis coach Mitch Vechione. "It's great getting these kids here and then it's also great because they play for two years, have a great experience and I'm able to move them on to bigger schools.
"It's great for tennis, it's great for NMMI."
Despite Vechione being hired back in February to take the helm of the program and having a short amount of time to see his team reach its full potential, he's never seen a player with more talent than Abamu.
"He's a once and a lifetime player. I have no doubt that he'll go on and do something great," Vechione said. "My expectations are to get him in the top 25 and to make a big push to help us be a national title contender."