Natalia Caruso '24 Recruiting Profile

Thanks to my grandparents and my dad, who all have a long history with the sport of tennis, I have been playing tennis since I was 5 years old. My dad has always been my main coach, as a former member of the men’s tennis team at Miami University (Ohio). 

I had always played singles until my seventh grade year of middle school when I was introduced to doubles. In eighth grade I played first singles all season, which was a great learning experience for me. When I reached the high school level, I decided doubles was what I enjoyed most and I was naturally more skilled at it (especially my net game). 

Ever since, I have played doubles and continuously worked on improving my serve placement, net/volley reflexes and skills, and movement on the court throughout the entire duration of a point. I have been told by many people that the key to being a successful athlete is to be coachable and willing to listen and accept advice and criticism. These people have also said that I possess this quality and it’s part of what makes me such a great player to coach and have on a team. I have also been a team leader and captain throughout my tennis career.

While playing tennis competitively during the fall season and practicing in the off season, I have also managed to balance my academic and work life, keeping high grades and a steady income. Tennis has also given me opportunities to coach kids in learning the basic skills of this inspiring sport and I’m so glad I volunteered my time to help grow the future generations of tennis.