In collegiate tennis, coaches are tasked with recruiting the best players in the state, region and country but also have the responsibility of pursuing talent around the world.
Whether it’s in pursuit of improved performance or a competitive advantage, programs are gaining new perspectives and cultures by recruiting internationally.
“International recruitment has enriched tennis in different ways,” said head coach Manuel Diaz. “The depth and quality of college tennis have improved dramatically since the mid-1980s when we started seeing an increase in opportunities for international kids. We have a responsibility to help develop American tennis as much as we can but also recognize the benefit of having international kids.”
Blake Croyder grew up immersed in tennis, admiring the sport and its players. Most notably Andy Murray, a two-time Wimbledon champion from Scotland.
Croyder was raised by two tennis-playing parents who handed him a racket when he was just 4 years old. Tennis has been a part of his life since.
At age 7, Croyder entered into tournaments and began playing competitively. Before college, he ranked third in the state of Georgia and 30th nationally. But he never knew his competitive career would lead him to the doorsteps of Division I, on Georgia’s men’s tennis team.
For Croyder, college sports was a new beginning for him and his career, and he was thrown into the fire immediately, competing for Georgia’s No. 6 singles spot his freshman year.
Ben W. McKettrick Portfolio 