Suraj Somaskandan '25 Recruiting Profile

I am a New Zealander who has been living in the USA for 7 years, and prior to that, Singapore. I live in Benicia, California - which is in the North East of the San Francisco Bay Area. 

I grew up in a Tennis environment. I was hitting balls from the age of 3 with my father who was a nationally ranked junior in New Zealand before playing Professional club Tennis in Germany.

From a young age, I liked to hit Tennis balls. It is an integral part of my life. I always felt comfortable spending time within the confines of a Tennis court. I loved the gladiatorial aspect of Tennis - it is a one-versus-one competitive environment - where only one person can win. I love the buzz of competing. I'd be a great asset to any college team as I love working within a team environment and love to work with others to win. 

I have always been a powerful tennis player. My strengths revolve around my serve and forehand - I hit a heavy ball. However, I have been developing my net game over the last year, and this has added a new dimension to my game. I found out in 2023 that I am one of the fittest students at my school. On a whim, I decided to try cross-country running at Benicia High School. Surprisingly, I found I was one of the fastest in my school - and I had never run competitively before! I run 10 miles regularly, and very comfortably.  Athleticism and stamina are my strengths. 

Academically I enjoy English and History. I intend to study Business at University. My long-term goal is to be entrepreneurial - with the intention of owning a business one day. 

I am a competitive person who is passionate about winning. I am certain that I can be a wonderful asset to any college that acquires me. 

I am a Tennis enthusiast - I watch Tennis every day through different mediums. My favorite players are Nick Kyrgios, Thanasi Kokkinakis, Alexei Popyrin, Grigor Dimitrov, Denis Shapovalov, Andrey Rublev, and Fernando Gonzales.