Tennis can be described as a sport of determination, strength and patience. Julianne Izod (10), agrees with the above sentiment when talking about her experience playing on the AFHS tennis team. Izod started playing tennis at the age of 9, and played “every sport imaginable” before deciding to continue with tennis. She started playing because of her sister and her dad. “My sister plays tennis, so I picked it up from her… Also my dad does but it wasn’t his main sport,” says Izod.
Izod explains that she opted to pursue tennis due to the lack of teamwork and motivation that she experienced in other sports. She loves the aspects of collaboration and cheering on her teammates that come with playing tennis. Izod discussed her academic career as well, stating, “I think the best scenario for me would be getting a half academic, half athletic scholarship somewhere.” In the future, Izod wants to explore the world of biochemistry and medicine. As a side job, she wants to be a tennis coach and share her passion for the sport with kids. When asked about her other hobbies, Izod said, “I’m on the school’s debate team, and I also write in my free time.”
Izod talks about what makes a great athlete as well. ”I think it's really about determination and drive because anyone can be an athlete really. Yes, some people are more gifted than others naturally. Some people have more talent naturally, but at the end of the day... if someone who's born with no talent works harder than they will be a better athlete at the end of the day because they are willing to do what it takes to succeed.” Lastly, Izod speaks more on her team and her fall season. “This is my first year on the team and it's just a really cool experience. Going on bus rides with the team and cheering for other people, which usually you don't get to do because it's tennis, kind of just polite and quiet.” Izod also reminisces on all the good memories she has had with the other girls on her team at games, tournaments and practices.
Julianne Izod has an amazing future ahead of her, in biochemistry with a side of tennis. Between memories alongside her teammates and feeling the rush of the game, tennis will always be near and dear to her heart.
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