Michael Wright '17 Recruiting Profile

During my sophmore year of high school, I began to explore other avenues to challenge myself; intellectually and physically. One day, as I listened to the morning announcments, in the month of December, my interest was sparked when I heard the announcer tell us about  tennis tryouts. I made up in my mind, right then, that I would try out. I had been playing football since I was in the 4th grade and it was all I really wanted to play until I entered high school.   I decided to take a break from football during my freshman and sophmore year so that I could focus on my academics and community service opportunities.           

But, I wanted to get back involved in sports because I knew that I wanted to start back playing football during my junior year.  I was inspired to try out for tennis because my mom played tennis in high school and was a region champion.   I knew that I would have someone to practice with outside of my team mates, if I made the team.    I attended tryouts. It  was the first time I have ever held a tennis racket. Coach Jones, my former gym coach, was the head coach of the boys team.  In class he was always so encouraging; which always amazed me. We started tryouts by hitting drills.  When it was my turn, I remember how all the balls I hit either went staight down into the net or flew outside the court fence. Coach Jones just told me to calm down and to always watch the ball. I had to pick  up all the balls outside the court a lot. I believe that’s what trained me to at least keep the ball in the court. Surprisingly, I made the team. I still believe to this day that I made the team from my athleticism from football.

I was an extra player on the tennis team during my sophmore year.  I learned by asking plenty of questions. I took what I learned from matches and practice, to our local tennis court where I practiced with my mom. When it was time for my first real match on doubles, I was really scared. I didn’t want to embarrass myself.  I surprised myself with my performance and we won the match 8-5. All I did was utilize what I practiced and it paid off. So, that summer I played football and tennis. I almost mastered the craft at a high school level with no professional training or being involved with the United States Tennis Association (USTA). I love playing tennis and learning new strategies,  like slicing, power alley shots, and  cross court shots. A lot was accomplished during my first year because of Coach Jones and his patience. 

`During my junior year I earned the spot of first singles. With that honor came great experience. I played a tennis player on the Monticello team that was 12^th in the nation in USTA. Everyone thought that our game was going to be a blow-out,  but I proved everyone wrong. Even though I still lost the resulting score was 3-8 and it was a long match. Even the coach of Monticello complimented me on my performance . That boosted my confindence! I still play tennis players that have played tennis for over ten years. Despite our different levels of experience,  I have been able to win some games.  I am still a work in progress and want to further enhance my skills on the court.