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: Gabriela Mendonça Rodrigues
Hometown: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Plans after graduation: Transfer to a four-year university
Previous school: Colégio Reino-Serra Negra, São Paulo
Favorite non-tennis athlete: Golden State Warriors – Stephen Curry
No. 1 on my playlist: "Stick Season" by Noah Kahan
My pre-game ritual: I like to listen to worship songs or Brazilian songs. I also pray and do the cross sign before a match.
My biggest inspiration: Aryna Sabalenka – I like the way she plays because she is aggressive and how she deals with pressure.
What keeps me motivated to play at a higher level:
1. Personal growth and development inside and outside court
2. Love for the sport
3. Physical and mental benefits
4. Future opportunities
Why I chose Collin College: Coach Jamie Nanez was super nice to me and explained everything about Collin College. I liked everything about it, such as the location, the tennis courts, and all the resources and academic programs offered.
Name: Tyler Young
Hometown: Burleson
Position: Get my master's in Psychology
Previous School: Centennial High School
Favorite non-tennis athlete: Sergio Ramos, La Liga, Sevilla, Spain
No. 1 on my playlist: "The Color Violet" by Tory Lanez
My biggest inspiration: My family, because they support me regardless of the outcome
What keeps me motivated to play at a higher level: Wanting to be a better version of myself
Why I chose Collin College: It provided me with the opportunity to meet some of the best people I've ever met.