Adaugo Ukaegbu '12 Recruiting Profile

 I first started playing at 5 years old with my dad in a court and not necessarily a tennis court, but a residential court. At 6 years old I began to go to tennis lessons with a coach at a local recreational park and from then on I played tournaments, primarily singles matches. Playing tennis has allowed me to go to many different states and meet new people. When I was younger playing in the girls ten and twelve’s division it wasn’t about winning as much as it was about having fun and learning to get better. I took that mentality to the older divisions where it was more competitive. Even when I lost, there was always something I learned from the experience.

            Playing tennis at the competitive level is very expensive and I am blessed to have parents that support me in this sport. I am proud of many of the accomplishments I’ve made outside of USTA tournaments. Being nominated 4 years in a row for the All-City River Cats player award and being the number one on varsity 4 years in a row is something I take pride in. Being a confident and aggressive player is what my fellow tennis players and team mates know me as and it reflects how much love I have for the game.             

            After many years of being a serious athlete I’ve realized that playing tennis has given me life lessons that I can use throughout my life. A person that is respectful and humble to their coach will learn a lot more than a person who is hard-headed and cocky. Also, learning how to be respectful on the court to my opponents despite the high anxiety of the match is an indication of self control that is needed in this world. “Garbage in, Garbage out,” is a phrase my parents say that I’ve connected to tennis. I’ve put in good work ethic and dedication through self-discipline and I’ve reaped the benefits of that which is shown in the way I play. As a predominately independent sport I’ve learned to take responsibility for my actions because in the end the consequences fall upon me. On the other hand, having the opportunity to play on a high school tennis team has taught me the values of teamwork which I can use later in my life especially in the work force.