Q&A: Kali Krisik, former junior standout & current USTA director of section development
USTA Oklahoma recently had the opportunity to catch up with Kali Krisik, a former USTA Missouri Valley standout player from Arkansas City, Kansas. Krisik’s impressive success on the junior circuit paved the way for a collegiate career at the University of Notre Dame, where she made a lasting impact both on and off the court.
During her junior tennis career, Krisik competed in the USTA Missouri Valley Rally in the Valley Championships (formerly Sweet 16). You can learn more and register for the upcoming Level 3 Closed Rally in the Valley junior tournament, which is slated for June 12-15 at Edmond Center Court in central Oklahoma, by clicking here.
Where do you live now?
Orlando, Florida
Where did you live when you competed at the Sweet 16?
Arkansas City, Kansas
What is your favorite thing about the sport?
I love that tennis teaches important life skills like accountability, respect, patience, grit, discipline, composure and teamwork. While I enjoy playing many sports, tennis is by far the most fulfilling.
Favorite Rally in the Valley moment?
I fondly remember traveling to Kansas City with my family to play Sweet 16 at the Plaza Tennis Center during the summer. The sights, sounds and BBQ smells were unmatched. Also, it was nice to be near shopping after losing … retail therapy.
Tell us about your experiences with Rally in the Valley and what made it stand out from other tournaments.
I always played Sweet 16 for the tough competition. The best Missouri Valley players showed up, and each match was an opportunity to prove myself. Also, I believe players earned more ranking points at Sweet 16, which was a nice incentive.
Did you go on to play college tennis?
Yes, I played college tennis at the University of Notre Dame from 2006 to 2010. It was an incredible experience that I was able to share with multiple teammates from Missouri Valley.
What were some of your standout accomplishments in tennis?
One of my favorite accomplishments was our family being named the USTA Ralph W. Westcott Family of the Year—what a special award to share with my favorite people. As a player, I finished my collegiate career as an ITA All-American and the No. 2-ranked doubles team in the country. I was recognized at the US Open as part of the ITA Collegiate All-Star Team and selected to the NCAA All-Tournament Team.
During my four years with Notre Dame women’s tennis we were ranked as high as No. 2 in the country and finished as ITA National Indoor finalists, two-time NCAA semifinalists, NCAA quarterfinalists and three-time Big East champions.
Kali Krisik helped lead the Fighting Irish to multiple NCAA semifinal appearances and three Big East championships.
Kali Krisik was named an ITA All-American and was part of the No. 2-ranked doubles team in the nation during her college career at the University of Notre Dame.
Kali Krisik (second from left) with her family, who were honored with the USTA Ralph W. Westcott Family of the Year Award.
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- Kali Krisik (second from left) with her family, who were honored with the USTA Ralph W. Westcott Family of the Year Award.
What are you doing now?
I currently serve as the director, section development at the USTA office in Orlando, Florida. In this role, I act as a liaison between sections and national, providing support and resources in order to serve the USTA’s mission of ‘Growing tennis to inspire healthier people and communities everywhere.’ I’m fortunate to work closely with Missouri Valley staff and tennis friends from my past. It’s such a small world!
Last, do you have any advice for the junior players today?
As cliche as it sounds, have fun. Before you know it this time will be over. If you’re struggling or facing burnout, give it time. The junior circuit can be a grind, but the end result might be better than you imagine. Lastly, thank your parents, coaches, teammates and supporters along the way. Good luck!
Rally in the Valley is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever before. On June 12-15 the courts at Edmond Center Court will be buzzing with excitement as players from all over the section gather to showcase their skills. Click here to register.
Check out USTA Oklahoma Q&As with former Rally in the Valley standouts Zeke Clark, Alex Han, Eric West and Madison Westby.
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