DAY IN MY LIFE AS A D1 TENNIS PLAYER🍋✨🎾

Many of you have been curious about what a typical day looks like for a Division 1 tennis player, and let me tell you, it's a constant juggle! It’s not just about hitting the courts; it's a full-time commitment that blends intense training with rigorous academics and, well, trying to have a college experience. My mornings usually kick off bright and early. Before I even think about my tennis racket, I head to study hall. This is crucial for me to stay on top of my coursework. Being a student-athlete means you often miss classes for travel and matches, so making the most of every study session is vital. My guidance counselor is a lifesaver, helping me plan my schedule and ensure I’m meeting all my academic requirements. Sometimes, it feels like I spend more time with my textbooks than my tennis balls, especially when I’m grappling with concepts like triple integrals – that definitely takes some serious focus! After hitting the books, it's usually time for my first training session or some personal workouts. Recently, I've been incorporating my own little workouts, focusing on strength and conditioning. It's tough, and sometimes it's hard to hold the weight, but pushing my limits is part of the game. That feeling of exhaustion mixed with accomplishment after a good session is something else. Fuelling up afterward is key, so lunch often involves quick but satisfying options, like that Mac and cheese I had today. The afternoon can vary, but it often includes more classes, team meetings, or even some much-needed downtime – though that's rare! I try to squeeze in practical tasks like laundry or tidying up my space because, let's be real, even D1 athletes have chores! It’s all about creating a routine that keeps me grounded amidst the chaos. Evenings are typically for dinner, maybe some social activities that the university organizes, or squeezing in more study time. It's not always glamorous – sometimes it's a quick chicken Big Mac on the go, other times it's a chance to unwind with teammates. The balance is definitely the hardest part. There are days when I feel completely overwhelmed, but then I remember why I started: the love for tennis, the camaraderie of my team, and the incredible opportunity to pursue my education while playing the sport I adore. Every day is a challenge, but every day is also a step forward in this amazing journey. What keeps me going? Knowing that I’m living out a dream, and that hard work on and off the court truly pays off.