Hokie ClubLily Hackbirth
Virginia Beach, Va.
Senior
How did you first get involved in tennis?
I was always very active and into sports as a kid. I played travel soccer for nine years and basketball for eight years, but tennis has been apart of my life for as long as I can remember. My grandparents built a tennis club in Virginia Beach in 1975 and still own it to this day. My mom grew up playing tennis in the Hampton Roads area which lead her to her time competing for the Virginia Tech women's tennis team from '87-'91. My parents never pushed me to play, but with my family already having ties to tennis, it was only a matter of time before I fell in love with the sport myself. I started taking lessons when I was around 5 years old, but began taking it more seriously after I wanted to make my school tennis team going into 7th grade.
What has been the best advice a coach has given you?
Although this is advice I have received second-handedly, a quote that my dad always told me was "take care of the little things and the big things will take care of themselves." My dad was given this advice by his Hall of Fame Virginia Tech football coach, Frank Beamer. Repeatedly throughout my childhood, my father would remind me of this quote and it has stuck with me throughout the years. I believe Frank Beamer's words to be true and they have always inspired me to do the right thing in order to prepare for the biggest moments in my life. I love this advice because it can be applicable to my preparation on the tennis court and can lead to success in life in general as well.
Who do you model your game after?
I have never particularly modeled my game after anyone, but I always loved watching Caroline Wozniacki and Maria Sharapova when I was growing up. I have always admired the grit that Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer have on the court; After all, they are greatest players of all time for a reason.
What has been your favorite off the court memory at VT?
There are way too many memories for me to pick just one favorite; however, I will always cherish going to the Virginia Tech football games. There is no better feeling than jumping and singing to Enter Sandman by Metallica with my fellow Hokies!
What are your plans after graduation?
I am still in the process of figuring out what my next path in life will be after graduating with a Bachelor of Science this May. I would love to work for a well respected Property Management / Real Estate company where I can learn and grow professionally. On the other hand, I would not be surprised if I end up back in school in the future. Your education is something no one can ever take away from you, and I would love to continue being a life long learner and potentially furthering my education!