Christian Rodriguez

McCaskey High School  •  Tennis Central  •  Spring 2018

What Does Tennis Mean To Me?

    Tennis is an amazing sport. Playing it teaches you many values you can apply outside of the courts. I have played tennis for a couple of years and have learned so many useful things I show everyday during school and at home. Playing in tennis matches has taught me to never give up when I am losing. It is very frustrating and hard to keep pushing forward when you’re down in a match but I learned to fight through it and try my hardest even when the match is out of reach. Playing doubles has taught me very valuable communication skills. Communication is key whenever working with other people and playing tennis has greatly improved my communications skills. It has also taught me teamwork. I’ve learned how to effectively and successfully work with a partner which is extremely useful in school for group projects. Tennis has also improved my discipline. I apply that at home, school, and when playing other sports like soccer. Being respectful is something everyone has to learn to do. Tennis has taught me to show respect to my opponent, coaches, and teammates. Whenever you think your opponent makes a wrong call in a match, you have to respect the call and not argue against it. I can apply this to school or anywhere else where I may not agree with someone. I also have to show respect to my opponent when I’m winning or losing by showing good sportsmanship. I also have to respect coaches and listen to everything they have to say so that I can improve. I show that skill whenever I listen to teachers at school, my parents at home, and adults anywhere else. Tennis is a sport everyone can play and should play. It is very fun and teaches you many skills you can apply outside of the courts that will help you have success.