With sparkling eyes, a radiant smile and being a champion in tennis, 19-year-old Dakshata Patel recently made a sincere debut in the film Tennis Buddies. Receiving praise from many, Dakshata now wishes to turn a new page in her career.

"It's been quite a roller coaster ride for me. And I am so grateful to my parents, the makers and so many who supported me during the making of the film. The encouragement and appreciation I have received throughout and continue to receive, fills my heart," says the young sportstar-cum-actress.

The level- headed an grounded newbie got started at tennis at the iconic Rama Rao's academy Practennis at Andheri and then honed her skills to perfection under the eagle eyes of Praja and Srinivas Kola at Leo Tennis Academy.

Among the top five players of Mumbai, Dakshata ranked 30th in women's tennis category in India. She was the lead player of the Mumbai University team which won the Inter University trophy, and was instrumental in winning the team a trophy for Maharashtra during this year's Inter State Women's Tournament.

Ask her what the future holds for her and Dakshata is quick to say that "I have got so much in life at such an early age that my confidence has shot up. Now I want to look at things which take me to a higher ground and help me grow from where I've reached." Here's wishing this upcoming and dynamic girl all the best.