School days built character: tennis pro

James McCabe (’20) has credited the rigours of his busy Trinity schooldays for giving him the discipline required on the professional tennis circuit.

After winning his first grand slam match at the Australian Open he spoke of his typical school day combining swimming, music, tennis, and academic work, from 4am until 9.30pm, then homework and bed.

The 21-year-old, who defeated talented young Spaniard Martin Andaluce in straight sets in the first round in Melbourne, said his gruelling schedule shaped him into the person he is today.

“Childhood was quite tough,” he said.

“But I got through it, and I think it definitely builds character and builds strength. I was a kid. I’m not saying I’m much older now. I didn’t know anything else. I didn’t know what anyone else was doing. That was my life.”

McCabe, born in the Philippines to a Filipina mother and Irish father, told reporters how he started tennis at the age of two with his father and was soon swimming regularly at their apartment complex pool in Rockdale.

His ability led him to national titles in both sports, sandwiched in between his music studies after he learned piano and then flute, playing in several of Trinity’s ensembles.

He finished his school years as the pandemic eased off, and embarked on the tennis circuit.

“Everything so far the last two years has just been a learning experience from travelling and you just don’t know what to expect until you do it,” he said.

Trinity Director of Tennis Jeremy Dykgraff said swimming was McCabe’s main focus when he first came to the School but he picked up the rackets again and started playing weekend matches.

“I think that’s when he got his passion back and realised that tennis was the one for him, more than swimming or any other sport at that time.

“He was very dedicated, very motivated. His work ethic was pretty strong, whether it was swimming or music or tennis, he gave everything a good shake.”

McCabe, with close family friend and former rugby star Sonny Bill Williams cheering him on in his box, went down to world number 42 Alex Michelsen of the US in the second round.