Emily Cotton '16 Recruiting Profile

~~I recognize I have most of my life before me but I believe it is important that at this stage to establish a strong foundation of work ethic and the basic principles on which to grow. So my priorities are God, my family, my education and tennis.  I began playing tennis at the age of 3, when my grandfather would toss foam balls to me in the driveway.  Ever since then I couldn’t stay off the court. Tennis has been a family sport for me, I bond with my grandfather every time I’m out there hitting with him. I started playing competitive tennis at age 8 and champed up by the age of 10. I advanced to Super Champ in the 14’s and then again in the 16’s. Tennis has helped me grow into a strong young adult. Tennis has also taught me that perseverance, patience and self-composure are key things I will always need to succeed.

Besides tennis I also raise and show animals. Competing in the show ring is another major part of my life. I have two horses, two cats, two dogs, and many, many gold fish. I am a part of a program called FFA and 4-H, where I raise lambs and show them. I have been very successful with my lambs over the last 7 years and it has been a great experience. Very few tennis players that I have met know about the agricultural world. This sets me apart from them because I compete in a totally different environment, and I have had much success on and off the court.  There are no “days off” when your animals depend on you. FFA and 4-H is my hobby, it feels good to get the ribbons and the belt buckles, but tennis is my passion. It’s what I know and what I love to do.

My family and I are very close. I tell my parents pretty much everything that is happening in my life, and I am thankful for our close relationship.  I am also close with my little brother; we still play tag or shoot Nerf guns. No matter how old I get, I will always become a little kid again when I’m around him. My grandparents live in the same city as me, and I am fortunate to spend lots of time talking to my grandfather. My grandmother is the ideal classy beautiful woman most young girls strive to be, she is a great example for me. (she also makes really amazing cookies).

Through tennis I have created lifelong friendships and memories. Tennis has not only been a competitive sport for me but it has also been a life lesson. I continue to learn daily. I want to improve my game and contribute to the college I play for. I have wanted to play college tennis since the 5th grade, and I look forward to attaining this goal.

This is a short summary of my life that I wanted to share with you.  Thank you for your time.