Jose & Woodman, former junior champions, to graduate U.S. Military Academy at West Point

Joel “Nathan” Jose and AJ Woodman have continued their lifelong joy of playing tennis, formerly as Ohio junior doubles partners, now, as soon-to-be graduates of the United States Military Academy at West Point where they’ve co-captained the Men’s Tennis Team.  

Together, the current seniors or “firsties” have a decorated playing history, having won multiple sectional and national junior titles. Over the years, Nathan and AJ have maintained their friendship and entered the service academy together. 

Before studying in West Point, New York, Nathan grew up in New Albany, Ohio of the USTA Midwest Section.

He enjoyed tennis as young as five years old, starting at the New Albany Country Club, where the tennis program, “has seen direction from the likes of Wimbledon Doubles Champion, Marty Riessen.” One of Nathan’s proudest moments, winning a Gold Ball at a USTA 14s Winter National Championship, led him down a continued path of tennis.

At age 12, he started competing with AJ Woodman.

AJ also grew up in Ohio; living further north in a community called Monclova. The two played in tournaments together until they were 18 years old — even after AJ started playing in Missouri after his family moved there during his high school years. Missouri is where AJ became a two-time State champion.

When Nathan and AJ joined the Academy, they became doubles partners once again.

“AJ is very good at the net,” said Nathan. “I like playing from the baseline. We mesh really well on the court, and it always makes it easier to play tennis with one of your best friends.”

Nathan considers the Academy to be a special place. “You’re able to spend time with your friends every day. Having AJ here with me is great. It’s always nice to have one of your friends that you have known for a long time right here with you,” said Nathan.

The two young men look forward to graduating together in May 2023 and being commissioned as 2nd Lieutenants to serve in the United States Army. “AJ and I have gone through so much together at West Point,” said Nathan. “Whether that was military training or playing on the courts.”