How long have you played tennis?

I grew up right across the street from two tennis courts in Newburgh, NY. When I was growing up, the neighborhood kids, including me, mostly played baseball with a tennis ball on those courts. I started regularly playing tennis on the courts that I grew up next to around 2011 or 2012. My brother and some neighborhood friends found ourselves playing tennis for several hours each day over one summer that first year. Then I joined a local tennis club where I took some tennis lessons and played in a few leagues for a year. I didn’t play as regularly for a while but I joined the Albany Tennis Club in 2023 and have been playing regularly again during the outdoor season since.

What do you enjoy most about being a member of Albany Tennis Club?

I enjoy a lot of things about the Albany Tennis Club. Some of my favorites include the warm welcome from Larry and the staff at the ATC, as well as fellow members. I like that I am supporting a local organization and the care that the organization does in preserving the beautiful clay courts at the ATC. I love the community tennis events and the annual 15-Love event. I also love playing Wednesday evening singles and the annual tennis tournament.

How has the tennis club helped you improve your game or fitness level?

The ATC gives me a chance to regularly get out and play tennis. I’ve met great people through the ATC that I can reach out to play tennis with anytime. I’ve certainly enjoyed playing some marathon matches and just playing until we can’t see the ball going over the net anymore because the sun is setting.

Can you describe any memorable moments or experiences you’ve had here?

I’ve played some challenging matches at the ATC that have lasted at least two to three-plus hours. Some that come to mind include Dave Giwerc during the 2023 ATC annual tennis tournament, Derek Friedman during the 2024 annual tennis tournament, and Davis Moeckel for Universal Tennis League matches. I enjoy playing regularly with other members and participating at the community tennis events when I am able.

What makes the club’s atmosphere or community special compared to other places you’ve played?

I love the staff and members at the ATC. I especially enjoy Larry’s emails with detailed information about what is going on at the ATC.

What Racket do you use?

I’ve been using a Wilson BLX Surge with a 100 sq. inch headsize for a while. I was thinking of trying something new.

Do you have a favorite Pro Player?

I have a few favorites. I guess Jannik Sinner right now. I used to root for Roger Federer, Andy Roddick, Novak, Stan Wawrinka, Gael Monfils, Maria Sharapova, Caroline Wozniacki, Serena and Venus Williams. I wish tennis was easier to watch. The Tennis Channel used to come with a basic cable subscription so I could watch and it was pretty easy to follow. It seems a bit too expensive and out-of-reach to follow these days. I’m a bit busier these days too.

What is one fun fact about yourself you are willing to share?

One fun fact about myself – I’m always doing something. I enjoy peace and quiet in nature.