From the SIAC:
The Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors, will feature Mark Chigaazira of Benedict College. He is a sophomore majoring in Computer Science from Harare, Zimbabwe. He maintains a 3.87 as a men’s tennis student-athlete.
Athletic Accomplishments:
- Unbeaten in conference play
- Multiple Player of the Week Honors
- Former ATP (professional tennis) Ranked
- Represented my country in the Davis Cup
- Top 5 ranking in Africa in 2017
- Won several tournaments and medals
Something unique most people wouldn’t know about you:
“I struggle with an eating disorder which takes away my appetite, and I might not eat for more than a week. It’s not easy being a student athlete with not enough energy, but it gives me a reason to drive and use what I have with me already.”
Goals/Plans after finishing school:
“I aspire to be a software engineer in a top tech company (i.e. Google or Apple). If God lets me through with no injuries, I’d want to play professional tennis and be among the top in the world. Lastly, I’d want to set up a foundation that helps high school students to understand the advantages and opportunities being a student-athlete “
Your Favorite Quote:
“No Goal is too far from reach.”
What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned as a student-athlete?
“Time management – it looks as if it’s not possible, but once you use your time well it’ll work out.”
How has being a student-athlete at your institution impacted your life?
“It made me realize that you only get results for what you put in (the gym, practice, studying and career fairs). All these are extra items I do outside my schedule helps me to perform better than everyone and to make steps into my career as a Software Engineer.”