Isabella Carrillo '24 Recruiting Profile

        My name is Isabella Carrillo but I usually go by Izzy. I’ve been playing tennis for about 12 years (since I was 5). I can’t remember a time where tennis wasn’t apart of my weekly routine or important part of my life. I tried out many different sports growing up, however tennis is the one that stuck. From the age of 13, I knew that I wanted to play tennis at the college level. Going into my freshman year, we were in the heart of the pandemic.  As such, given what was happening, I had to make a choice on whether to continue with my public school or to transfer to Cathedral High School. Eventually, I decided to put my athletics and education first and take the chance. Upon looking back, as a Junior classmate, it was a very pivotal moment and the best decision I’ve ever made. 

My goal is to find a college that suits my educational, athletic, and personal goals. I consider myself a team player and a leader, given I’m not afraid to speak up and I am a very sociable person. While in my first year at Cathedral, I knew very few people and faced many challenges.  However, as time went on, I started talking and sharing with fellow classmates.  As a result, I have made many great friendships.  Needless to say, I am glad I put myself "out -there."  This quality of mine has proven to be beneficial for which I’m very grateful for.  As a freshman and sophomore, I played number one singles above the other upperclassman. Because of this position on the team, I became a strong leader and learned many things that I can apply outside of tennis. Being in a leadership position on the team taught me humility, how to act under pressure, and how to handle adversity. I enjoy "pumping" everyone up and keeping a positive demeanor, during those "nail biting" points; as well as, challenging times.  This not only helped me as an individual, but the people around me as well. Losing a match and walking off the court with a smile might have to be one of the hardest things one can do, but one must remember that staying positive and having good body language can affect the dynamic of a team. It is always about the "Team".

Playing singles tennis can be a lonely journey, however playing for a great school and being a leader to the less experienced classmates, is something I’ve grown to love and appreciate. Given my busy schedule, I have proudly managed to keep a steady 4.12 GPA and have received high honors every semester.  I am very proud that I have been able to create great relationships with all my teachers. It was fun being a part of the Spanish Club my sophomore year as well as the Holy Cross Council. I was honored to receive the Blessed Basil Moreau award for leadership and fellowship. 

Overall, tennis has been very big part to my life.  I welcome the challenges to come and look forward to my continued personal growth in becoming the best version of myself on and off the court.