Norfolk Collegiate’s Coxe going nine years strong as tennis player
NORFOLK, Va. —
Team: Norfolk Collegiate School
Grade/Year: 10th
Sports participated in: tennis, in the past: dance at BVI and volleyball and soccer at The Williams School
Years in current sport: 9
What are your personal goals within your sport/athletic dreams?
I’m improving my serve, and I’m inspired by Naomi Osaka. I also would like to play college tennis.
What was the best advice you were ever given?
Never underestimate your opponent. Every player brings their own skills to the table.
Do you have a saying or motto that you like to live by?
“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams! Live the life you’ve imagined.” (Henry David Thoreau)
What do you love about your sport?
I love that anyone can play tennis into old age, I can always meet new people, I can learn new skills and strategies every day, and it’s gratifying when I hit a shot I’m proud of.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Coach Ron King introduced me to the game of tennis when I was six years old at the Ghent Square tennis courts. I also have played on Junior Team Tennis teams with Coach Jennifer Toomy. Moreover, I love playing with my Norfolk Collegiate tennis team coached by Mr. James Moskowitz.
What do you like to do outside of your sport?
Playing percussion and being a part of the Bay Youth Symphony Orchestra, hanging out with my friends, doing photography, trying new restaurants in Norfolk, volunteering, and watching the show “Survivor.”
How would you describe your personality?
I’m optimistic, upbeat, open-minded, and calm.
What is your favorite song or music artist to get you ready for a game?
One of my favorite songs I like to listen to before matches is “River” by Bishop Briggs.
Do you have a pregame ritual you follow?
I watch tennis matches. I used to watch the 1980 Wimbledon Final, Borg vs. McEnroe, religiously.
What is the best piece of advice you received from a coach or mentor?
Don’t just think about the overall win. Think and play each point like it matters most. (Dan McCain told me this years ago.)
Describe a mistake you made while competing and how you overcame it.
Not realizing that the surface of the court affected my game greatly. However, after playing on different court surfaces over time, I have better adjusted to how fast the ball will bounce and how it will affect my gameplay.
Know of an athlete we should feature? Send your nomination to Meg Haynes at [email protected].
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