Racquet Ball
Rankings prove Lindwall's success Time is spent in many ways other than doing just homework. Racquetball is a pastime attempted by many, but few develop and continue the sport. Rodger Lindwall, senior, is what some may call a "pro" when it comes to racquetball. Playing for five years; seriously for two, Lindwall has accomplished at 17, what most wish to accomplish in a life-time . Ranked first in the state and region in the junior division, 15th in the nation, and seeded seventh in the nationals, Rodger has proven outstanding ability and strong dedication to the sport. He has also received a most improved player by the United States Racquetball As-
Phil Cuka Robert Czeranko Mike Dahl Michael Darby Keith Darner lucy Davis
Jeannine Davison Amy Dawson Sam DeMaria Kathy Dickinson Jerry Dillon Doug Dohlen
88- Seniors
sociation in 1980, as well as one from the Nebraska Racquetball Association in 1981. Getting started came easily with motivation from the outside. "My dad played and he thought I should try it," said Lindwall. Racquetball of Omaha is where he spends one to three hours, six or seven times a v:eek practicing. With such hard work, and long hours, it may not all seem worthwhile, but Lindwall has noted enthusiasm, and hopes for the near future. "Next year I'll have a really good chance of doing well in the Junior Nationals," stated Lindwall. Fringe benefits often follow excellence in any sport. "Most
of the big money tournaments are in Colorado and Missouri," he said. Help from others has also added to his success. "The pro at our club has helped me and has taken me to tournaments," he said. His reasons for success are somewhat modest. "It's easy for me to practice, I get a lot of competition around the club, and my equipment is free ." Achieving goals and personal satisfaction are important elements to every success. The uniqueness of racquetball, unlike a team sport, has advantages according to Lindwall. "It's one on one, you don't have other people to blame your mistakes on," he said.