Lincoln’s Julie Obear Receives USTA Sportsmanship Award

Julie Obear was taught at a young age about how important sportsmanship is when playing competitive sports. The Lincoln resident and 4.5-rated player was recently nominated for a USTA Sportsmanship Award by an opposing player.

“I was always told that ‘It’s not just about winning or losing, it is also important how you win and how you lose.’ To me, it is important to show respect to both your teammates and your opponents, this allows competition to be fun in addition to what it is. It has always proved to be the best advice when it comes to competing.”

Obear has been playing tennis for the past 40 years, and competitively for 17. She enjoys the camaraderie and meeting new people through the game. She was very appreciative to receive this award from the USTA.

“It made me feel very proud, proud that people think I am a good competitor and fun to play against,” she said. “Win or lose, it is about having fun!”

A native of Massachusetts, Obear played Division I field hockey and softball at Boston College. She’s also an avid cyclist and backpacker. When she’s not being active, she’s a physical therapist in Lincoln, specializing in hand therapy. She received a box of USTA swag for this award.