Reid Washkoviak '25 Recruiting Profile

I started playing tennis when I was young, but back then, it was just a hobby that I loved. It wasn't until my freshman year of high school when I played #1 Singles on Varsity that I started to take it more seriously. Although I didn’t win a lot of matches that year, I gained a vast amount of experience and learned the importance of humility, good sportsmanship, growth in the face of defeat, and believing in myself even when the odds were against me. I utilized these skills my sophomore year, and the love I had for the game turned into a drive to compete and win. This resulted in a breakthrough season for me, in which my winning record earned me a special qualifier to compete in the state tournament. Though my run ended early, this opportunity gave me clarity on my future in tennis, and my goal of playing at the collegiate level began to take shape. 

Soon thereafter, I joined a new club where I was able to take advantage of numerous opportunities to participate in camps, take lessons, and receive private coaching from former college coaches, players, and even professional athletes. Additionally, I fueled my passion to compete and gained match experience by playing in as many tournaments as I possibly could. As a result, I have not only improved my skills but also gained confidence and increased my mental toughness to help me be successful at a higher level. 

Although it is nice to be recognized for my tennis ability, I am most proud of how I am viewed as a person. Throughout my high school career, I have been recognized for my sportsmanship, positive attitude, and on-court demeanor, not only by my own coaches and teammates, but also by other coaches, players, and parents throughout the conference. As evidence of this, I was honored to receive the “Teammate of the Year” award at the conclusion of my freshman basketball season. In addition to these attributes, my leadership skills have also earned me recognition both on and off the court. I was captain of my Junior Varsity basketball team and Varsity tennis team. Furthermore, off the court, I was one of six student representatives from my high school who was selected to attend a leadership conference at a local university during my sophomore year.

Aside from sports, academics are also a huge priority in my life. I have always given everything I have into all that I do, and school has been no exception. My grades and academic achievements are proof of the continual effort I have put in. I also value being an active part of the community I live in, and I volunteer to help out wherever I can. Looking ahead, academics continue to be important to me, and I value the education that I will receive at my future school. I hope to find a school that will allow me to continue to grow in my love and passion for the sport of tennis, allow me to immerse myself in the community, provide me with a good education, and, most importantly, assist me in developing a healthy balance between academics, sports, and life.