Spring Break
From Arizona to Connecticut
Colin McDonough
Issue date: 4/14/09 Section: Sports
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"I wanted something new after junior tennis. I looked at UConn. I thought it'd be a great fit and I loved Coach [Glenn] Marshall," Cheung said.
Marshall said, "I went to Arizona to see her play and I knew she'd be great. She has a spirit that you cannot break on the court."
If you visit the UConn tennis courts, you will see the competitive spirit Marshall is talking about. During a match, Cheung is all business and it shows in her results. She was named Big East player of the year two weeks ago because of her play on the court.
She is just as special off the court. After her matches end, Cheung acts as a third coach. She talks to other players during breaks in their matches. She gives advice and sometimes makes them laugh and smile.
Cheung of course, was humble about receiving the Big East award.
"I was shocked when I heard, but it was really cool. To be honored like that in the highly competitive Big East was great," she said.
Cheung along with her coaches, agrees she has progressed in her college career. She admits to feeling "freshman jitters" three years ago, but as captain she feels no pressure. She started at the five as a freshman, and has moved to a three the last two years. Cheung has been a captain for two years; she is now the only senior on the team and is the biggest leader. She feels that the UConn has helped her improve on the court more than her leadership has improved the program.
"This team and coaches have helped me improve so much as a tennis player, " Cheung said.
Cheung has won eight of her sixteen singles matches this spring. This includes a streak of winning eight of her last twelve.
Her success correlates with the team's success. In every match the Huskies have won this season, Cheung won her singles match. When Cheung turned her individual season around, the Huskies turned theirs around too. One of the highlights for the team this season was a win in Orlando, over Hillsborough Community College 4-3. Cheung had the clinching point for a dramatic Huskies' win. She has also had big wins at home this season, versus Georgetown, Seton Hall and Quinnipiac.
Marshall can only say of her success, "A lot of players cannot match her will and determination."
One of the best parts of Cheung's experience has been her coaches. Marshall and Assistant Coach Kate Tellers have become very close with their captain.
"The overall experience has been amazing. I have so many great memories and made so many friends. The best times I've had were hanging out with my teammates. I love all the girls on this team," Cheung said.
Off the court Cheung doesn't just help teammates,; she is also a great student. She has been named a Big East Academic All-Star every year in her career. The accounting major will graduate next month and plans to go to Graduate School.
The Arizonan said coming to Connecticut was the best choice for her.
"I'm so glad I came here. I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world."
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