Proud Of Our Alumni!

Dear Coach,

As these three months have now passed since I've been at college, I've begun to settle in and adjust to the college life. My new found independence and the pressures which accompany it have been exciting yet quite a challenge. I never thought that choosing my own path would be such a hassle. This hassle though has been well worth the work and dedication it took to get here. I love everything about Texas Tech, the coach and the team has been a perfect fit for me, classes are challenging but I'm working hard and making good grades, and I've surprisingly found time for a social life too.

My decision to redshirt(Red shirting is practicing with the team, but not playing any matches to preserve a year of playing eligibility) this year has worked out extremely well, I've been able to adapt much easier to the demands of class and playing on the team. Even during the fall, the travel time makes it tough to keep on track with school and staying on top of everything. I'm looking forward to the spring season and watching our team compete, while I won't be playing I'll be having to work even harder on my fitness and being in the best shape possible. The physical demands of college tennis are far greater than junior tennis.

Going from being the oldest person at ATA and now being the youngest on the team here at Tech has been an interesting experience, one that has given me a great perspective on the importance of leadership. Coming here to Lubbock as a somewhat clueless freshman I've had to rely a great deal on the leadership and advice of the older, more experienced players on the team. They've helped me with a great range of issues, not just tennis. So for the older players back at ATA, take this time of your junior career to be such a leader and in doing so strengthen yourself and also the others around you, taking the ATA team with you to another level.

Good Luck Everybody and Wreck 'em Tech!

-Ethan