Carson Sands '18 Recruiting Profile

My name is Carson Sands. I started playing tennis when I was 10 years old. I was inspired and motivated by my dad, who also plays tennis. I played on the USTA Corta league in Columbus, Georgia for 4 years, and went to State and Regionals two of those years. I now play on the Corta High School league. I also played No. 1 Singles in 7th grade at Harris County Middle School, coached by Connie Lynch. In 8th grade, I played No. 1 Singles on the JV team with Harris County High School.

In 9th grade I was on the Varsity Tennis team, and played No. 2 doubles. Our team made it to the 2nd round in Regionals. My sophomore year, I played No. 1 Singles, coached by Kristine Bradley and Steve diFeliciantonio. We made it to Regionals, but lost in the 1st round. After my Sophomore year, I was named All Bi-City Tennis for my school with a 13-3 record.

The summer after my freshman year, I really got serious with tennis. I spent many of my summer days at the Callaway Gardens Tennis Center, volunteering to hit with visitors, and sweeping the courts in exchange for lessons with the Pro, Steve diFeliciantonio, and court time to hit with team mates. Steve taught me many things about tennis, from nutrition and being physical fit, to focusing on my mental game. Last year in a region match, I believe it was my mental toughness that lead me to win a tough match.

During the past 2 years I have gone to a Tennis Clinic in Columbus Georgia, coached by Mike Greer. There we hit and do various drills twice a week.

I have always enjoyed the competitiveness of tennis. The challenge of playing different styles and levels of my opponents. I enjoy being part of a team, but also the responsibility of relying on my own skills to win. I have grown my game by playing tournaments on the weekends. Over the years I have trained with several different coaches, and learned different techniques. This has enabled me to find my style so I can play my best. I am constantly learning new technique and mental focus to grow my game.

I have attended the UGA Tennis Camp for three summers. Being there I have learned how to improve my game, met a variety of players, and coaches. It has been a great experience.

I am volunteering my time with Corta's, Teen Council in Columbus, Georgia. We have various events throughout the year. Our biggest event is our 'Toys for Tots' Tournament. This event raises money and toys for needy children throughout our community. There is also a Special Olympics event, where I am paired up with a child with special needs for a day to play tennis, do drills, eat and have fun. We also help out with sweeping courts, court monitoring for the young children learning to play tennis. I have been a member of Teen Council for 3 years.