Freshman Spotlight: Q&A with Kolie Allen
11/7/2018 7:28:33 PM | Women's Tennis
Freshman Spotlight
Q&A with Kolie Allen
Kolie Allen is from Lombard, Illinois where she played tennis at Glenbard East High School for three out of four years. She finished her career by wining state and accomplishing 100 career wins. Allen has two Gold Ball national doubles titles as well as two Bronze Ball doubles titles.
Kolie chose Ohio State because, “it is one of the best athletic programs in the country and Melissa and Adam, along with the team, felt like family from the first time I came to visit campus,” explained Allen.
When did you first start playing tennis?
I started playing tennis at the age of six. I just played every summer in park district programs.
If you had to pick another sport to funnel your passion and talent into, which sport would it be?
It would definitely be volleyball because my mom played and I didn’t get the chance to play because it was during the same season as tennis in high school.
Did you have any role models growing up?
Maria Sharapova was my favorite tennis player growing up but now Serena Williams is who I look up to the most.
What is your favorite thing about the game of tennis?
I love that you have to be completely focused throughout the whole match because if you don’t, things can change so fast. It really keeps you on your toes.
What changes are you noticing most, switching from high school to collegiate tennis?
College tennis is more about fighting and who wants it more in my opinion. Everyone is good but who wants it more for themselves, their team and their school.
Do you enjoy playing indoors or outdoors most?
I love indoor tennis. I feel like you don’t have to worry about a bunch of other factors, like the weather and the build of the courts. In my opinion it really shows who’s the better well-rounded player.
Do you have a pregame routine or a favorite pump up song?
I don’t really have a pregame routine but I always listen to rap music to pump me up. Mo Bamba is an absolute bop.
If you could pick any professional to be your doubles partner who would it be?
I would be so happy if I could play mixed doubles with Nick Kyrgios. He is my favorite player on the men’s side.
What is one of your favorite quotes?
“The principle is competing against yourself. It’s about self-improvement, about being better than you were the day before,” -Steve Young
Which professional tennis tournament would you want to participate in if given the chance?
U.S. Open
Pop or soda?
Pop
What is something you are currently working on to improve your game?
I am trying to approve on my all-court style of play.
What is one of your biggest strengths as a tennis player?
My serve is one of my strongest assets.
