University of Minnesota Athletics
Players Mentioned
Coaches Fall Review
1/4/2022 10:45:00 AM | Tennis
Gopher Sports sat down with Coaches Thompson and Kelley to reflect upon the fall season
Minneapolis - With the spring season right around the corner, Gopher Sports discussed with the coaches their view of the fall tournaments and season as a whole. Minnesota participated in the Gopher Invitational, ITA Central Regionals, and Harvard Invitational over the course of the fall, compiling a strong record across each competition. The comprehensive review from Catrina Thompson and Meghan Kelley allows for an inside look at the team as they move into the spring season and conference play.
GS: What are your overall thoughts on the fall season; bright spots, or areas of focus?
Coaches: The addition of 5 newcomers created an atmosphere that emphasized team building and growth. This was a unique element and opportunity for defining a strong team culture. The Harvard Invitational highlighted the strong on-court development which had been shown in practice throughout the duration of the season. A main focus moving forward was creating and maintaining a strong competitive atmosphere, ensuring match readiness and toughness.
GS: How does the team's mix of youth and experience define the squad?
Coaches: 5th year senior Emilee Duong, Sophomore Rachel Hanford and upperclassmen help provide strong leadership and a depth of knowledge. Newcomers provide additional energy and competition, which adds excitement and value. Every person contributes to the strength of the team.
GS: What are the team's biggest strengths?
Coaches: Our team is very diverse with many personalities and game styles that make this Gopher team unique. Our depth is another valuable asset, each player has the ability to step into various roles on the team. The team's hard working attitude and commitment to improvement help in each area of practice and on match day.
GS: How has the team developed thus far?
Coaches: Fitness and conditioning have been an area of improvement, Coach Whitlock has helped greatly with the team's overall strength and endurance. We have also focused on individual sessions for growing each individual's game in a tailored way and finding complimentary doubles pairs. The importance of versatility and adaptability has been stressed throughout the fall season; especially as we focus on getting the team fully match ready come January 15th.
GS: How do the Captains (Emilee Duong, Rachel Hanford) lead and add to the team?
Coaches: Both Captains do an excellent job of leading by example, and pushing the team to be their best. Their experience acts as an extension of the coaching staff, which helps coaches and teammates alike. They each have a different leadership style, so they compliment each other well by playing off of one another's strengths.
GS: What are your goals for the offseason and upcoming spring season?
Coaches: The three pillars of our team are communication, positivity, and grit. In our meetings over the fall, we collectively found these to be bases of our success. As the season moves on, we look to stay connected and continue to grow as a team. In terms of on-court goals, our main objectives are to qualify for the NCAA tournament, and have a strong B1G 10 Tournament showing. Our biggest goal is to come together as a team and proudly represent the University of Minnesota.
GS: Where do you see the goals set forth exemplified in the day to day of the season?
Coaches: It certainly starts at practice, where there is an expected high level of energy and commitment. We need to show grit through the longevity of the season, and bringing competitive spirit every day. It is important to us to always give 100%, exemplifying the mantra of outworking our opponents.
Minnesota will begin their spring season on January 15th, as they take part in the Florida Gulf Coast Hidden Dual Tournament, in Fort Myers. Their home season gets underway January 22nd at Baseline, as the Gophers take on Drake University.