CHICOPEE — Ahmed Faisal, a tennis player who achieved national ranking, was honored with a proclamation by the City of Chicopee in a ceremony in the Council Chambers on Jan. 23.
Mayor John Vieau presented the proclamation to Faisal. The player’s journey from soccer to becoming a nationally recognized tennis player demonstrates his commitment and skill.
Vieau said, “He embarked on his remarkable tennis journey in 2017, transitioning from his soccer roots in Iraq to become an inspired novice influenced by his favorite tennis player on television. The genesis of a man’s tennis career occurred during his senior year, where he played his very first tennis match.”
The mayor acknowledged Faisal’s participation in singles leagues and 3.0 U.S. Tennis Association tournaments, noting his work ethic and determination. He added, “He dedicated himself to the three-point USTA tournaments, demonstrating an unwavering work ethic and determination,” noting Faisal’s silver medal at a national tournament in Arizona.
In 2021, Faisal began coaching, which the mayor recognized as a significant contribution. “Ahmed’s commitment to tennis reached new heights. The mayor also acknowledged a pivotal moment in Faisal’s training with Judy Dixon, a former [University of Massachusetts] tennis coach, leading to Faisal’s second rank in New England’s 4.5 division by 2023.
“Despite facing a setback due to a wrist injury, [his] unwavering determination and passion for the sport persevered, ultimately leading him to attain the prestigious number one ranking in the men’s 4.5 Division Nationally.”
Vieau then proclaimed Jan. 23 as Ahmed Faisal Day in Chicopee.
Faisal praised his parents for providing him with a better life in the U.S. “I’d like to thank my mom and dad because they are why I’m here,” he said. He also acknowledged the crucial role of Dixon in his player development.
Faisal discussed his efforts to promote tennis, particularly during the summer months. “We also try to do social leagues and summer to bring everyone together to play more tennis matches and get to know tennis,” he explained.
He expressed concern over converting tennis courts to pickleball courts in Chicopee, showing his dedication to the sport.
Dixon recalled how she was initially impressed by Faisal’s passion and desire to improve. Despite not typically taking on new students, she was moved by Faisal’s commitment and agreed to work with him.
“For someone with this amount of passion, also socially conscious, which is my thing for sure, and that has this desire to be as good as he can be, I said okay, we’ll work together,” she said.
Dixon noted Faisal’s focus on improving his ranking but emphasized the need to develop a more diverse and complete game. “He has been so focused on the rankings. I have told him that rankings don’t matter. It’s about getting better and better,” she stated.
Regarding Faisal’s future, Dixon mentioned his potential to play in the Davis Cup. “I want to be able to develop a fuller game. A more diverse game,” she said.
Dixon’s admiration for Faisal and his family was evident. “I greatly respect this family because having these two young men be as wonderful as they are. Both of them have been amazing,” she added.
Mohammed Salman, Faisal’s father, spoke about his family’s move to the U.S. and their aspirations for their children.
With a sports science background and a former basketball international team member in his home country, Salman highlighted the sacrifices made for his family’s future.
“I lost my job, I lost everything. But because I am completely sure the United States is the country that we can pay off their dreams,” he said, emphasizing their decision to move for a better future for their sons.
He proudly mentioned his sons’ achievements, with Faisal making a name for himself in tennis, while his older son graduated in civil engineering and is currently employed. Salman recalled their family’s shared interest in tennis, especially their admiration for Roger Federer.
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