Another in a continuing series of Q & A interviews with Trinity spring sports student-athletes.

Directed by 11-year head coach Chris Mather ’86, the Rocks were headed toward an attempt at a state crown repeat before the season was cut short.  Recent graduate Michael Chou, graduate Justin Lee and sophomore Ben Rueff were set to lead the team.  Before the season, Chou was quoted on the Trinity Athletics page: “I am excited to start another season with my brothers.  It is going to be just as tough, if not tougher, than last year, but I believe if we keep working hard, we can be repeat state champions.”  Chou answered some questions about his tennis career.

Q: When did you first decide to play tennis?

A: When I was around six years old

Q: Why tennis?

A: My parents were the ones who first introduced me to the sport. My dad played tennis as a kid, so his joy for the sport rubbed off on me.

Q: How did you learn how to play tennis?

A: My dad taught me how to play at first. After I had learned a bit, I started going to tennis clinics.

Q: What appealed to you about playing for Trinity?

A: I already had a brother attending who was on the tennis team, so I went to some of their matches. Seeing the brotherhood firsthand was one of the primary reasons I went to Trinity, and I wanted to experience it for myself. 

Q: Who was your inspiration?

A: My dad was my inspiration for tennis growing up. Seeing his joy when we played together and when I won a tough match motivated me to keep playing.

Q: Who is your favorite professional tennis player?

A: Roger Federer is my favorite tennis player. I’ve always admired the way he carries himself on the court. He knows how to stay calm, yet you can see his joy in victory.

Q: Who has influenced your play the most?

A: I’ve had many coaches throughout my life who have each been essential in my development, so it’s pretty hard to gauge. Still, I would have to say that my dad has been my best coach. He’s been with me from the start and has been a great teacher and dad.

Q: What do you gain from playing tennis?

A: Of course, there are ups and downs, but I consider it a great way to both train myself physically and mentally and meet new people.

Q: Do you plan on playing in college?

A: I plan on playing club tennis at the very least.

Q: What is your best memory of your tennis career at Trinity?

A: Winning state with my brothers. Seeing something you all worked so hard for come to fruition was an amazing feeling, especially since I experienced it with the team.