Get to Know Audra Anderson

Q: How did you get into tennis?

A: My older brother started into tennis, and I always went to the practice to watch. I think they always had an odd number so the teacher asked if I wanted to join in some of the games. Then, she told me to ask my parents if I could join in, too. After that I was hooked and practiced every day.  I coached college tennis for 16 years until my program was cut because of budget cuts with the state. Then, I started my own Tennis Academy and have been doing that for three years now.

Q: Why do you think tennis is a sport worth sharing?

A: It is a great sport that can keep you constantly learning things about yourself, teaching you life lessons, even teamwork. It is a great sport to keep you in shape from age three to age 90. It is a great stress reliever and social sport, as well.

Q: Why did you want to become a Tennis Ambassador?

A:  It is an honor to promote tennis, but it is easy for me, because I really believe in it and what it has to offer.

Q: What is your favorite tennis memory?

A: Has to be as a college coach, getting to the Final Four of the NAIA Nationals or getting to the Finals of the MVC Division I conference tournament with my teams. I get so proud of my players and how hard they work.

Q: How has tennis improved your life?

A:  It has taught me a lot of life lessons. It has been my career.

Q: Why would you encourage someone to get invovled in tennis?

A: It is a life sport, so good for your life longevity.

Q: What is your best advice?

A: As a coach, my advice to you is you're never too young to improve yourself! Never stop learning!  Take a clinic, Take a lesson, you'll be shocked what it can do.

I think sometimes also we can get stuck in what we do: playing always the same doubles groups, or going to the same clinics. Challenge yourself by changing it up, play against a different style of player, maybe an older or younger player or different gender. It will make you a better player.  You may not like it at first, but it will challenge your strategy to figure it out.