The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

Shefat Nusrat Baishakhi became the first Bangladeshi to achieve the Arthur Ashe Jr Collegiate Award for Leadership and Sportsmanship, 08 in America.

This award is given every year by the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) of America under the supervision of United States Tennis Association (USTA).

Baishakhi has been chosen for this category for her singles and doubles records in the ITA, her academic career results, sportsmanship, leadership and character.

Participants from some 50 educational institutions of America were the nominees for this year's award.

Baishakhi, now studying Information System Analysis at the Lewis Clark University, will formally receive her award at the Arthur Ashe Tennis Stadium during the US Open in August.

Bangladesh Tennis Federation (BTF) will accord a reception in honour of the country's female tennis player, said Federation general secretary Mohammad Sanaul Haque disclosed the details at a press briefing at its conference room Monday afternoon.

Baishakhi's father Lutfar Rahman and mother Nafiza Bashar Poppy also spoke on the occasion.

Lutfar Rahman said, "Baishakhi is always a hardworking girl. After achieving such an award, we can hope that our country will produce more girls like Baishakhi in the future."

Mother Poppy expressed her feelings saying, "I was so happy when she was nominated for this category… it's a great privilege to get such award as a Bengali Muslim girl."

She also informed that Baishakhi played charity matches in America to raise funds for the cyclone Sidr victims in Bangladesh.

Besides, during her stay in America, Baishakhi won 24 tournament titles.