Even though I am only a freshman, I was involved at Stockton before the official school year even began. I play tennis, and moved into Stockton on August 16, 2012, to participate in the preseason workouts. Since I first picked up a racket, tennis has been a huge part of my life, and I’m so happy that I’m able to bring my game to the collegiate level.

Preseason was such an awesome experience. I expected that it would take at least a little bit of time to adjust to a new coach and new teammates, but it didn’t take any time at all. The coaches and the other girls were all welcoming and eager to help me make the most of my freshman year at Stockton both on and off the tennis courts. Needless to say, being on the tennis team is not just a onetime event, but a series of events that include practices, matches, and team bonding. During preseason our team had two practices a day; one was in the morning and one in the afternoon. Even though it was a bit tiring, practice was always fun. The whole team practiced together, and we all lived in apartments in F Court. It was nice to have the team so close all the time.

 Now that school has started we only practice once a day and we are off on Sundays. I’ve found it to be a tad challenging to balance classes and tennis, especially if I have to miss class for an away match. Playing a sport has definitely kept me focused, and it has taught me good work ethics. My daily routine consists of class, practice, homework, sleep, and repeat, with eating scattered somewhere in between. We work hard at practice so we can perform well during matches. We have had a few matches since the season has started, and so far have only been defeated by TCNJ. Home matches are my favorite, because a small number of people actually come and watch us play. The school’s mascot, The Osprey, even showed up at one of our matches and was walking around spreading school spirit. It felt really good to be representing Stockton in that way. We’re a team of only nine girls, but we’re definitely a part of something bigger. Before a match we play music from the big speakers and it gets me really excited to play tennis and represent my college. Away matches are a bit of a different experience, but they’re fun too. When we go to away matches, we get to stop for dinner and the athletic office gives us $10 each to use on food. The car rides are sometimes pretty long. I don’t mind, because I get to see some really neat places and get to visit other colleges. I’ve been out of the state for matches twice so far, once to Immaculata University and once to Cabrini College. It seems like on the way up, all of us are quiet either listening to our own music and getting ready for our matches, but on the ride home we’re all chatting and giggling, regardless of the outcome of the match.

Being a part of the Stockton College tennis team makes me so happy, and I can’t imagine being in college without playing the sport that I love. The great coaches and friendly teammates are just an added bonus that I am lucky to have. Thus far, I am loving tennis here at Stockton and can’t wait to see what the rest of the season holds for myself and my teammates.