Personal Statement
Entering high school this year and playing in the no. 2 Varsity spot at Doherty High School has allowed me to think about a lot of things as I became a student athlete. The person that has influenced me the most since I started playing tennis at age 3 is my mother. She left her family and country of South Africa to pursue her passion for tennis, and played for Division I university, Wichita State. This is also where my passion for tennis started. I’m also influenced by watching players like Federer, Nadal, Djokovic and the Williams sisters. I have learned from all my role models to practice, practice, practice, be versatile in my game, and be mentally strong. If I make a mistake, I must move on and play the next point better and smarter.
It takes discipline to balance my time between academics and tennis. Learning about the game and culture of tennis is also ongoing: tennis etiquette, how to be a good team mate, have good sportsmanship, and how to deal with different types of players during matches. This is the first year I’ve played structured tennis. I’ve learned a lot so far! Always have fun playing the game of tennis. No one will ever have the perfect game. Have confidence in myself and my game. Don’t show negative emotion on the court. The opponent will use it as an advantage.
I am growing every day as a student and athlete. It is my goal is to maintain a 3.4 GPA or higher, and prepare in high school for college by taking Honors and AP classes. I pride myself on good organization and turning in quality work on time. A unique characteristic about myself I’d like to continue to build on is to respond to coaches’ feedback positively and play harder, better and smarter. I’m excited to develop my game over the next 4 years, and potentially be part of your team!