A nine-year-old athlete from Lincoln is making waves in the sports community, inspiring her peers to engage in physical activity. Rebecca Batista is not only a passionate tennis player but also competes in swimming, gymnastics, and athletics. Her dedication and enthusiasm for sports are evident, as she trains six days a week and represents both Lincoln and the wider county in various competitions.
Paulo Batista, Rebecca’s father, highlighted her early interest in sports. He stated, “Since she was little she has shown interest in sports, and a multitude of sports.” Balancing family life with Rebecca’s rigorous training schedule and competitions can be challenging. Paulo, originally from Portugal, emphasized their commitment to supporting her athletic pursuits by stating, “We try to give to Rebecca what I didn’t have from my parents. It’s a lot of time to dedicate.”
Rebecca’s five-year-old brother shares her passion for sports, particularly in swimming and athletics. The young athlete describes her favorite activities as tennis and swimming, saying she “loves” both. Her personal motto, “Little but Limitless,” encapsulates her belief that determination knows no size. She confidently asserts, “It doesn’t matter how small you are — if you believe in yourself, you can do anything.”
Inspiring Her Peers
Rebecca has gained recognition not just for her accomplishments but also for her ability to motivate others. She showcases her medals at school, encouraging friends to explore sports themselves. Her father remarked, “Her energy, determination, and talent shine through in every sport she takes on. Whether she’s serving an ace on the tennis court, gliding through the pool, or performing flips in gymnastics, Rebecca gives 100 percent with a smile that shows just how much she loves sport.”
She is affiliated with the Lincoln Tennis Academy, where she competes in tournaments, as well as the Pentagua Swimming Club and the Lincoln Wellington Athletics Club. Additionally, she is a member of the Witham Hill Gymnastics Club, where her performances on the bars, beam, and floor have earned her multiple first and second places.
Rebecca’s aspirations are ambitious. Her father explained, “Rebecca’s goal is to keep learning, improving, and enjoying every sport she takes part in. She dreams of representing her region, and one day, perhaps her country, in top competitions.”
Future Endeavors and Support
As Rebecca continues to excel in her sports, her family faces the challenge of selecting competitions wisely, as many events occur simultaneously across the county. They are also exploring opportunities for local sponsorship to help support her journey as she competes on behalf of Lincolnshire.
In a world where young athletes often face pressure, Rebecca Batista stands out as a beacon of inspiration. Her commitment to sports, coupled with her infectious enthusiasm, makes her a role model for her peers and a promising talent to watch in the years to come.
