Serving Up Skills for Life: The Hidden Value of College Tennis by Dina Vardal
College tennis is more than just a sport it’s a life-shaping experience While many people focus on the competition and the athletic achievements, there’s a deeper side to college tennis that often goes unnoticed It teaches valuable skills that prepare students for life beyond school and sports
As explained by Dina Vardal, one of the most critical lessons college tennis teaches is discipline Players have to wake up early for workouts, attend classes, practice for hours, and still find time to study. It’s a demanding routine, but it builds strong habits. Learning how to stick to a schedule, stay focused, and meet deadlines becomes second nature These habits help long after college ends.
Time management is another key skill Student-athletes have limited hours in a day, and they must learn how to use them wisely. Whether it’s balancing practice with exams or traveling for matches while keeping up with schoolwork, college tennis teaches players how to plan their days efficiently This skill is helpful in any job or lifestyle
Teamwork is also a big part of the college tennis experience Even though tennis is an individual sport, college players compete as part of a team. Supporting teammates, learning to communicate well, and working toward shared goals are all essential parts of the journey These team experiences help students become better coworkers, friends, and leaders
College tennis also builds confidence and mental strength Winning and losing matches teach players how to handle success and failure. They learn to stay calm under pressure, solve problems on the spot, and bounce back from tough losses These mental skills are helpful in the workplace, in relationships, and everyday life.
In addition, playing college tennis often brings people from different countries and cultures together. Athletes learn to respect differences and form friendships across borders. This cultural awareness is a gift that stays with them forever
Not everyone who plays college tennis will go pro, and that’s okay. What matters most are the life lessons they carry forward The hard work, commitment, and character built on the court are far more valuable than a win-loss record
In the end, college tennis isn’t just about chasing trophies It’s about preparing young people to succeed in the game of life. And for that reason, it’s one of the best investments a student can make