UCF women's tennis freshman Nadja Bay Christians took some time to reflect on her rookie campaign with the Knights and answer some questions about what she learned in her first season of collegiate tennis. Read her answers to the set of questions below:
What was your favorite moment from the 2020 dual match season?
"I had a lot of very enjoyable moments from the season, whether they were on or off the court. But I would say my favorite memory was winning my first singles match as a Knight. It also clinched the match against TCU."
What do you like most about being part of the UCF women's tennis program?
"I would say that my teammates are my favorite part of being a Knight. I have a great time with them, and we have formed a great connection. We treat each other like family, and that doesn't stop with the players. The coaches, trainers and everyone that helps us better ourselves is part of our family."
How would you describe your first collegiate tennis season?
"I would describe my first collegiate season as a roller coaster. Unfortunately, I had a few injuries in which I couldn't give it my all and contribute to the team in the way I would have liked. On the other hand, it was a good experience. It was my first year being away from home and I feel like I have adapted well."
What is one thing you learned from this season that will help you for next year?
"One thing I learned from this season and is still something I have to work hard on is making every practice count and giving each practice 100 percent effort at all times. You never know when your last match can be. Above all, I've learned I need to be patient with myself."
What sort of workouts and drills have you been doing to get ready for next season?
"To be ready for next season, I'm doing basic fitness such as running, core exercises, strengthening my upper body and eating right. There's always something to improve upon."
What are your expectations for the team in 2021?
"My expectation for the team in 2021 is for the team to give it their all in every match. The results and victories will come out with maximum effort; the goal is to win our conference again."
Bay Christians finished the season with a record of 2-3 in singles and went 3-2 in doubles. Her two singles victories were match clinchers, securing wins against TCU and UC Santa Barbara.
NBC with the match clincher on four ?? pic.twitter.com/lCXiwQwpm4
— UCF Women's Tennis (@UCF_WTennis) February 14, 2020
The rookie got the job done again! Nadja picked up the clincher for the second straight match ?? pic.twitter.com/Zwhw2WolcW
— UCF Women's Tennis (@UCF_WTennis) February 16, 2020
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