Meet the Athletes – April 2, 2024

Gabriela Rodrigues (left) and Tyler Young are members of the 2024 Collin College Tennis team.
Photos by SARA CARPENTER

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.