By Carolyn Linck, '11

Freshman Katie Le (KL) started her Bronco tennis career off well during the 2010 fall tournaments.  Now, gearing up for the spring season Le is more focused than ever.  Recently www.SantaClaraBroncos.com (SCB) caught up with Le about her adjustment to college life and tennis, her goals for this season and why she chose Santa Clara University.

SCB: How old were you when you started playing tennis?  Who taught you the game?

KL:  I started playing tennis when I was 8.  My dad still plays tennis so he raised me to play it too.

SCB: Why did you choose Santa Clara University?  How have you been adjusting to college life in the classroom and on the tennis court?

KL: I chose SCU because the athletic facilities and campus are amazing.  I was also interested in the engineering school here.  College life is so different from high school since the classes are more interesting and challenging.  Now that I am in a tennis team, tennis isn't so much of an individual sport anymore.  It's much more fun having teammates that are by my side every step of the way.

SCB: Do you look up to any of the upperclassmen on the team?  What's the best advice they have given you so far?

KL: Coming in as a freshman, everything is still very new to me.  All the older girls look after me, and I know they have my best interest at heart.  I'm lucky enough to call them my best friends.

SCB: You had two big victories against St. Mary's and Oregon players during tournaments in the fall.  How do you think you'll be able to build on this success in the spring season?

KL: Those wins over older players gave me confidence that I can compete against anyone.  I learned from these matches that I need to go out on the court, not think about who they are, how old they are, what school they play for or anything else.  I just have to go out and play my best.

SCB: What are your goals for your freshmen season?

KL: Tournaments before college tennis are very different.  You play your matches individually and you're pretty much on your own.  Now, I have a team that I continually have to cheer on and support, even when I'm losing.  This season, I'm going to focus on being a good team player and keeping my energy levels high.

SCB: What aspects of your game do you think are the strongest?  What aspects do you think need the most improvement, and how are you working on them?

KL: I have a lot of confidence in my backhand. I expect a lot of myself, and I know that I can compete against the best players.   I need to allow myself to make mistakes though, because it's impossible to make every shot.  If I can learn how to do this with the help of my team and coach, I won't be so frustrated when I'm not playing my best.

SCB: What do you hope to accomplish by the end of your Bronco tennis career?

KL: By the end of my tennis career, I want to be ranked nationally for singles and doubles.