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Photo by: Kelly Hagenson
Gophers Spotlight: Bella Lambert
2/4/2020 10:30:00 AM | Tennis
In this week's Gophers Spotlight, we decided to sit down with sophomore Bella Lambert. Born and raised in Minneapolis, representing the University of Minnesota at the NCAA level was a natural fit. Now in her second year, she reflects on what she has learned, what it means to be a Golden Gopher and what she is looking forward to in the upcoming season.
Gopher Sports:You are from Minnesota and while in high school, you won a Class 2A Singles State Title. When you look back on those memories, how do you feel about that accomplishment?
Bella Lambert: That day was super exciting for me. I worked really hard leading up to that season and had a goal of winning the state title. Some of the girls I played against had been rivals all throughout juniors, so it was really fun to compete against them in that intense situation.
GS: What is it like to represent your home state on the NCAA level?
BL: It's amazing. I couldn't picture myself playing or going anywhere else because I've grown up playing in this facility and love everything about Minnesota. It is definitely much different playing at this level compared to juniors, so it was not an easy adjustment.
GS: Now a sophomore, were there any moments as a freshman that stood out to you?
BL: A special moment was when we beat Northwestern because it was an amazing accomplishment. Every moment has been great with the team though!
GS: What are some things you learned about yourself during your first year playing for the Gophers?
BL: I learned a lot about myself when I first came here; including to put the team before yourself, give your full effort every single day, and not to be afraid to be myself. The girls on my team are my best friends and I am so glad to share this experience with them.
GS: What are you looking forward to the most this upcoming season?
BL: I am looking forward to competing against the big teams this upcoming season. We have a really talented team this year and I am really excited to see what we can do. It's also really nice that most of our matches are at home this year, which gives us a good advantage.
GS: How has tennis shaped who you are as a player? As a person?
BL: Tennis has shaped me into a hardworking, determined player. It has also taught me so much about life including patience, hard-work, strength/mental toughness, etc.
GS: What is your favorite spot in the Twin Cities? Why?
BL: My favorite spot to visit in the Twin Cities is Uptown because there is so much to do there!
GS: Lastly, what makes the University of Minnesota so special?
BL: The University of Minnesota is so special because it is a great school with great people. The community is amazing and I think we have one of the best campuses. I also love that campus is in the city, so there is a lot to do.
Quick Q's
Who is your hero? Federer
If you could live anywhere, where would it be and why? London because it's beautiful and I love the vibe there
Biggest fear? Losing a loved one
What motivates you? My family, friends, and team :)
Gopher Sports:You are from Minnesota and while in high school, you won a Class 2A Singles State Title. When you look back on those memories, how do you feel about that accomplishment?
Bella Lambert: That day was super exciting for me. I worked really hard leading up to that season and had a goal of winning the state title. Some of the girls I played against had been rivals all throughout juniors, so it was really fun to compete against them in that intense situation.
GS: What is it like to represent your home state on the NCAA level?
BL: It's amazing. I couldn't picture myself playing or going anywhere else because I've grown up playing in this facility and love everything about Minnesota. It is definitely much different playing at this level compared to juniors, so it was not an easy adjustment.
GS: Now a sophomore, were there any moments as a freshman that stood out to you?
BL: A special moment was when we beat Northwestern because it was an amazing accomplishment. Every moment has been great with the team though!
GS: What are some things you learned about yourself during your first year playing for the Gophers?
BL: I learned a lot about myself when I first came here; including to put the team before yourself, give your full effort every single day, and not to be afraid to be myself. The girls on my team are my best friends and I am so glad to share this experience with them.
GS: What are you looking forward to the most this upcoming season?
BL: I am looking forward to competing against the big teams this upcoming season. We have a really talented team this year and I am really excited to see what we can do. It's also really nice that most of our matches are at home this year, which gives us a good advantage.
GS: How has tennis shaped who you are as a player? As a person?
BL: Tennis has shaped me into a hardworking, determined player. It has also taught me so much about life including patience, hard-work, strength/mental toughness, etc.
GS: What is your favorite spot in the Twin Cities? Why?
BL: My favorite spot to visit in the Twin Cities is Uptown because there is so much to do there!
GS: Lastly, what makes the University of Minnesota so special?
BL: The University of Minnesota is so special because it is a great school with great people. The community is amazing and I think we have one of the best campuses. I also love that campus is in the city, so there is a lot to do.
Quick Q's
Who is your hero? Federer
If you could live anywhere, where would it be and why? London because it's beautiful and I love the vibe there
Biggest fear? Losing a loved one
What motivates you? My family, friends, and team :)
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