Midwest Closed Moments   Angelica Ross

Each year, juniors from across the Midwest participate in the  Midwest Closed Championships. In many ways, the tournament is a culmination of players' hard work, dedication, and countless hours of training. Angelica Ross of Ohio is no different. We were able to catch up with both Ross and her mother, Luciana Aronne, after her first-round match about her tournament experience. 

Q: What made you want to play in the Midwest Closed?

AR: I think this tournament is a great experience, and since I am deciding to have this be my last one, I think it is a great tournament to end with in the summer. 

Q: How has your experience been so far?

AR: It's been good! It was pretty humid during my first match, but it's good to get the first match out of the way. I'm excited for the next ones.

Q: What are you looking forward to in your upcoming matches, and what do you hope to work on?

AR: I think just playing my game and staying aggressive. I also need to stay focused mentally, because I was struggling with that a bit during my first match. 

Q: What made you originally want to start playing tennis?

AR: My parents play tennis, so they showed me the sport. I really enjoyed it; I like how it is an individual sport, but at the same time, you can make friends with it. 

Q: So Luciana, what made you want to get Angelica involved in tennis? 

LA: It was her choice, I never pushed it on her. I played junior tennis, so I know it's hard and you really have to want it. She decided she wanted it and has worked very hard. I tried to give her every opportunity I can to do well in these tournaments. 

Q: What do you think the value is of a tournament of this magnitude?

LA: I think for teenagers, having the College Showcase and knowing coaches are going to be around if they are interested in college tennis is a very good opportunity. This is a Level One tournament like others, but the difference is you have to earn it by doing well in the qualifier or having a good ranking to get in. I think it has a little more meaning, because you have earned it. I also think it is great to be able to play against people outside of your district. 

Q: Angelica, what is next for you in your college career?

AR: I recently verbally committed to Wright State University, so I'm really exicted for that. I will start in the fall of 2020.

To find out more information about the Midwest Closed, click here.