Meet the Athletes - Feb. 29, 2024

Jose Castillo and Sophia Raum Dalla of Collin College Tennis, Spring 2024
Photos by NICK YOUNG

Get to know your Collin College student athletes in this regular feature. This week, we meet members of the men's and women's tennis teams. 

Name: Jose Castillo
Hometown: The Woodlands
Plans after graduation: Move on to another college to expand my tennis career
Previous School: The Woodlands High School
Favorite non-tennis team/athlete: Real Madrid Futbol
No. 1 on my playlist: "Classy"
My pre-game ritual: Lock in
My biggest inspiration: My dad: I am who I am because of him.
What keeps me motivated to play at a higher level: It's just passion, and it is a lot of fun for me.
Why I chose Collin College: The facility, the location, and the opportunities

Name: Sophia Raum Dalla
Hometown: Sao Paulo, Brazil
Plans after graduation: Become successful in the sports management field
Previous School: Colegia Luiz de Queiroz
Favorite non-tennis team/athlete: Sociedade Esportiva Palmeiras (soccer)
No. 1 on my playlist: Brazilian music
My pre-game ritual: Talk with my family. Organize my racket and clothes in advance. Think about the game and how I want to behave.
My biggest inspiration: Family and myself – I want to be the best version of myself.
What keeps me motivated to play at a higher level: Earning academic and sports scholarships to complete my degree. My family. Being the best version of myself.
Why I chose Collin College: Collin College was the first option on my list, and I was very happy when I received the offer. Collin has support for athletes, sports scholarships, and structure.