Madeleine Veltri, Women's Tennis
1. Tell me about your time here at OCC … what have you enjoyed the most out of it? And … what made you decide to come here in the first place?
"I’ve been at OCC for three years now and it’s been so rewarding. I came here originally for tennis! I heard how accomplished the women’s tennis team was and that made me want to join! I’ve made so many friends through the tennis program and so many unforgettable memories."
2. Has there been an athlete (from your sport or other sports) who has inspired you to perform at your best? What is it about that person that has inspired you so much?
Michael Jordan is a big inspiration for me. He had this passion and a drive for being the best and it makes me want to do the same.
3. Playing tennis at this level tells me you have a love for this game. What is it about your sport that you love so much? When did you first start playing your sport and when did you realize that this is a sport you could excel at?
Tennis is such a fun sport and not a lot of people realize that. I’m a very competitive person and it’s really fun to go one-on-one against a player or doubles team and play my hardest. I love being a part of a team and contributing something. I started in seventh grade, a little later than most, but I have not put my racquet down once. I love learning new things and won’t stop until I’m good at it and that’s what happened when I first started taking tennis lessons and I haven’t gotten enough yet.
4. What are your strengths in your sport and what are some facets of your game that you would like to see improved as the season goes on?
I believe my biggest strength is my mindset. There’s always points you don’t win or maybe your partner is feeling frustrated after a hard point and I try to always pick myself up and hype up my partner for the next point. It’s so important to not let those emotions get the best of you. I would love to see myself be even more consistent in rallies and not trying to hit “winners” at any possible chance.
5. How would your teammates or coaches describe who you are, if I were to ask them?
I’m very outgoing when we have a match and they would concur that I’m the loudest one out there. I try to be a good teammate who cheers for everyone and encourages them to join in. I’m one of the older girls on the team and take initiative to get everyone involved and I think of us as a family!
6. Do you have any hobbies/interests outside of tennis? What do you like to do in your spare time?
I have tons of hobbies that I never get around to during season. I love to cook and bake, I read when I get a chance. I’m perfecting my French and becoming fluent and I’m learning Korean as well. I love giving tennis lessons to friends or neighbors who ask and I also started to learn how to golf last summer and I’m excited to pick it back up again!
7. What is your favorite pre-match meal or snack?? What about after a match??
Before matches lately all I’ve been able to eat is a banana. I get really nervous sometimes so I just keep it light. After the match is where I eat a big meal. I love mexican food or pho, those two are my first picks!
8. Favorite all-time Movie? AND … Favorite SPORTS movie?
Favorite all-time movie is "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" ... which kinda speaks for itself.
Favorite sports movie is actually "The Last Dance" documentary series on Netflix.
9. Favorite all-time Song?
Sex on Fire - Kings of Leon
10. What’s the No. 1 travel destination on your Bucket List?
Number-one travel destination has got to be Italy. Their food, scenery, and atmosphere is so tempting. I also have family there I would love to visit!
