October Spotlight of the Month - Athlete
Each month, USTA Oklahoma will highlight a player, a volunteer and a NJTL (National Junior Tennis & Learning) or Adaptive Tennis Player. After selecting the three winners, USTA Oklahoma sits down for Q & A with the spotlight of the month.
Athlete: Any player that has good sportsmanship & dedication to the sport, whether they are just starting out in a Team Challenge or they are a nationally-ranked player. USTA Oklahoma would love to hear recommendations from your team or facility. Click here to see the October NJTL Spotlight.
Volunteer: A person that has gone above and beyond for your facility or program. Click here to see the October Volunteer Spotlight.
NJTL/Adaptive Player: A player that has demonstrated hard work and dedication in their program.
The October Player Spotlight of the Month:
Carmen and Ivana Corley, OU Women's Tennis sister duo that were ranked in ITA collegiate pre-season #1 in doubles.
Where do you play? Ivana (I) & Carmen (C): The University of Oklahoma
Favorite tennis memory? I: Beating Oklahoma State at home last season C: Clinching the match against UCF and then beating OSU with my team Easter Weekend
Where are you from? I & C: Albuquerque, New Mexico
How long have you been playing? I & C: Since I was 5 so about 15 years
Favorite athlete? I & C: Serena Williams
Who is your tennis coach? I & C: Audra Cohen, Jose Gracia, Mariana Cobra, Ben Dunbar, Johnny Kowlaski
What is your pre-match ritual or pre-match meal? Ivana: I have a cup of coffee in the morning and I have to wear my hair down up until the point that I start warming up! Carmen: Pre-match ritual is to listen to “Apparently” by J Cole., say a prayer, stretch and breath
What racquet do you use? Ivana: Wilson Clash Carmen: Yonex VCORE 100
Forehand or backhand? Ivana: Backhand Carmen: Forehand
Favorite sport, besides tennis? Ivana: Basketball Carmen: Football
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