Fall19ThoreauClubMagazine

The first players at the Tim Mayotte Tennis Academy. How do you think you have changed or grown as a player since starting at the Tim Mayotte Tennis Academy? Isabella: Throughout the last year, many of my strokes have changed technically and I have grown physically, both of which have benefited my game. Additionally I have grown mentally and tactically, which has allowed me to perform better at tournaments. Working with the coaches to develop a game plan and stronger tactical tendencies have impacted my tournament play. Cristiana: I think that I have improved mentally, physically, tactically and technically. Specifically, I think that I am mentally stronger on the court and smarter. I am making better choices in points and have developed a more all around game. We focused a lot in the winter and spring on transitioning into the net which has improved tremendously in my own game. What is your favorite part about TMTA? Isabella: My favorite aspect of the Academy is the coach’s engagement in every practice and how they will constantly give you helpful criticism to improve your game. Cristiana: It’s a very positive and upbeat environment where everyone is very focused and wants to get better. During every practice the coaches and other players push you to be better and practice is very structured and productive. What is the best thing you have learned over the last year? Isabella: Although I have learned an array of things over the past year working at the Academy, one of the most impactful is how to practice, since that has a large effect on a player’s performance in tournaments. The coaches at the Academy have played a large role in making sure that I, along with the other Academy players, have a good idea of what you should be working on in not only a specific drill, but the practice as a whole. I feel as though over the last year my practices have been significantly more efficient since I have a purpose to each drill. Cristiana: My net play and ability to hit touch shots (slices, drop shots, etc) has improved the most and has been very useful in all of my matches. I have really learned how to utilize the net as an offensive weapon rather than just hanging out around the baseline. What is your Pre-Match Meal? Isabella: A sandwich with either turkey or ham (if before an afternoon match) or an egg sandwich (if before a morning match). Cristiana: I don’t really have one specific thing that I like to have before a match but I would say I normally have some type of sandwich. What is your pump up song? Isabella: “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes Cristiana: Same as last year - still ‘Welcome to the Jungle’ by Guns and Roses & ISABELLA & CRISTIANA DE AGAZIO Isabella De Agazio Cristiana De Agazio 19 LEARN MORE AT WWW.THOREAU.COM