The University of South Alabama men's tennis program added three newcomers to the roster for the spring season. One of the three newcomers is freshman Collin Scheufler, from Gulf Breeze, Fla. Scheufler spoke with USAJaguars.com about why he started playing tennis, his path to South Alabama and who he models his game after.
When and why did you start playing tennis?
"I started playing when I was 12 because my sister had started playing, too. We kind of started playing together."
Take me on your path to South Alabama.
"I got in contact with Nick (Brochu) at first and we started talking after that. He came to one of my matches to watch me play and he offered me a spot in January."
Why did you want to come to USA?
"I always wanted to be part of a strong team and I wanted to stick closer to home. I live in Pensacola. South Alabama was one of my first choices."
Who do you model your game after?
"Andy Roddick and Rafa Nadal. I'm a lefty so when I was younger I tried to copy Nadal, but I've started to try and be more aggressive like Roddick."
How would you describe your playing style?
"I'm a baseliner, an aggressive baseliner."
Who has been the biggest influence on your playing career?
"My coach. He started with me when I began to play tennis and worked with the me the last six years until I got here. "
What are your biggest strengths and what are you trying to improve on the court?
"My serve and ground strokes are solid. I'm working on my volleys and I'm trying to become more aggressive."
What is your favorite thing about playing tennis?
"The competition."
What do you like to do outside of playing tennis?
"I like to listen to music and chill with friends."
What are your goals while you're here at South Alabama?
"I want to become the best I can be and do whatever I can here."
QUICK HITS
Favorite tennis player: Andy Roddick
Favorite athlete other than tennis: Connor McGregor
Favorite TV Show: "Dexter"
Favorite movie: "Linsanity"
Favorite social media: Instagram
Favorite sports team: New Orleans Pelicans
Favorite sport other than tennis: Basketball
Join the Baseline Club, the tennis-specific support club of the Jaguar Athletic Fund. All donations to the Baseline Club go directly to support the South Alabama men's and women's tennis programs. For more information on how you can join visit: http://jaguarathleticfund.com/baselineclub
For more information about South Alabama athletics, check back with www.usajaguars.com, and follow the Jaguars at www.twitter.com/USAJaguarSports. Season tickets for all Jaguar athletic events can be purchased by calling (251) 461-1USA (1872).
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