When you hear “former top 25 player in the world” or “Davis Cup captain,” you might expect a childhood full of private lessons, high-performance academies, and constant tournaments. But Michiel Schapers’ story is very different — and that’s exactly why it matters for parents and young players today.
Michiel was my coach between ages 16 and 19, a period that shaped my tennis identity more than any other. In our recent conversation, I wanted to bring his voice and wisdom to the ROGace community — not just for his credentials, but for the values he lives by and the perspective he brings to raising self-driven athletes.
The Wall as a Coach
As a boy, Michiel didn’t have easy access to clubs or private lessons. Instead, he played for hours against a wall. He chalked half a tennis court on the ground, drew a net at the right height, and imagined himself in real matches.
“The wall is very patient — it brings every ball back,” he laughed. His sisters may not have enjoyed the sound when he hit against the side of their house, but for Michiel, the wall became the ultimate coach. It demanded control, creativity, and self-drive.
Late Start, Big Impact
It wasn’t until age 14 that Michiel even stepped onto indoor courts, and not until 21 that he began private coaching. Until then, he learned through group lessons, experimenting with tips from coaches, and observing better players. He even umpired matches just to study strategies.
This “late start” in formal training didn’t hold him back. If anything, it gave him patience, discipline, and curiosity — the traits that carried him to the ATP Top 25, Australian Open quarterfinals, and an Olympic quarterfinal appearance.
The Role of Curiosity and Exploration
Michiel believes curiosity is as important as talent. As he put it:
“If you want to develop your game, you’ve got to be curious. Experiment. Try things. That’s how you grow.”
He credits his willingness to experiment and his self-discipline for the habits that carried him into his pro career — and later into coaching roles for top players and as Davis Cup captain.
A Warning Against Early Specialization
Today, many families face pressure to specialize early, invest heavily, and chase early results. Michiel’s take is clear:
“If you go for results too early, you risk burnout. Kids need balance. Play other sports. Don’t put quantity over quality.”
For him, multi-sport participation was essential — from soccer to cricket to tennis, sometimes all in one day. That variety built fitness, focus, and joy.
Parents: Encourage, Don’t Interfere
When asked how parents can nurture self-drive, Michiel’s advice was simple: – Give kids responsibilities at home (shopping, mowing the lawn, chores).
– Instill values of gratitude and humility early.
– Let coaches coach. Support from a healthy distance.
“Show an example, yes. But ultimately, kids must take initiative themselves.”
He reminded us that tennis is a sport of mistakes, and parents must let kids make them. Interfering too much can rob a child of resilience.
ROGace Values in Action
Michiel’s stories echo the values at the heart of ROGace: – Joy:
“Enjoying the sport is the most important thing.”
– Excellence: Patient, disciplined growth — not shortcuts.
– Resilience: Accept mistakes, stay friendly toward yourself, and keep going.
– Gratitude: Take responsibility at home, stay humble, appreciate the journey.
Final Mic-Drop
“Great tennis starts with enjoying the sport. Create an environment where fun and curiosity lead the way.” — Michiel Schapers
His words remind us all: the journey matters more than the trophies. And in that journey, joy, patience, and self-drive are the real victories.
Do you know a family who would be encouraged by this story? Share this with them and help us grow the ROGace community.
Check your email for the link to the Guide
