A peek into RDT-Rafa Nadal Educational & Sports School in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh
Rafael Nadal in Anantapur three years ago to inaugurate his foundation’s first project on 17th October, 2010
Photo Courtesy: Indian Express
The RDT-Rafa Nadal Educational & Sports School, an initiative by the Rafa Nadal Foundacion, was opened in the remote village of Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh in 2010. The school is funded by Rafael Nadal himself, who donates around $2 million every year.
Its major aim is to provide the local kids with proper education and Tennis coaching.
Nuria Sanchez Garcia, Nadal’s personal friend, is the one who has taken up the mantle of coaching the local kids.
Nadal’s batch mate, Garcia, was once ranked 450th in the world before she decided to pursue law as a career option. She jumped at the opportunity to help underprivileged kids in India.
She takes tennis sessions on a part time basis and claims that Rafael Nadal is in constant touch with her regarding the progress of the academy, as reported by Indian Express.
There are five state-of-the-art and flood-lit clay courts within the boundaries of the school, which were again funded by Rafael Nadal.
The school also aims at providing quality education for kids from the neighbouring areas as well. English is a major part of their curriculum.
The academy also pays attention to the nutrition of the kids as they provide bananas and lime juice on a daily basis.
Moncho Ferrer, head of the Rural Development Trust, was one of the key men who played an important part in formation of the academy.
Moncho is the son of legendary Vicente Ferrer, who was a well-known social worker and was, once, nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.
Education and training costs of kids are funded by Spanish citizens who donate a sum of around $100 per month for each child.