Nearly two decades have passed since I laced up my shoes and proudly wore my Crimson uniform on the courts at The Beren Tennis Center. While it often seems like a lifetime ago, the gratitude I feel for my time as a student-athlete endures. Not only was it a privilege to represent Harvard Athletics, but it was also one of the most defining and rewarding experiences of my life.

When I first arrived in Cambridge, I could barely contain my excitement. Growing up in Southern California was undeniably idyllic, but I was eager for a change and a challenge. To be on my own on the opposite coast, studying with some of the greatest minds of our generation, while competing against the best collegiate players in the country, was exactly the adventure I was seeking.

My newfound independence in college was incredibly motivating, but also terrifying. I needed to balance a more demanding schedule both on and off the court.  As a result, I discovered the importance of time management, prioritization, and preparation. My training was intentional, and my intensity and focus grew to allow me to go the extra mile. I began to see pain as a sign of progress, and I embraced failure, pushing past the feeling of being uncomfortable.  Previous limits appeared in the rear view.  This was the grit I had long desired, and with it came a resilience that still serves me well.  Today, whenever I feel uneasy, I know I must be doing something worthwhile.

I also had the unique pleasure of overlapping at Harvard with my older brother, Dave, who was on the Men’s Tennis team, for the better part of my college experience. Despite a two-year age difference, we were finally on equal footing, navigating uncharted territory together on our respective teams. Until then, I had followed in his footsteps and modeled my every move after him. But, in those years, a shift occurred, and I felt a comfort in my own skin, and a confidence gained through the work done.  While he continued to be my mentor, greatest supporter, and closest confidant, I was able to emerge from his shadow and cultivate my own path. 

I’ll always cherish the time with my team, as a small part of a bigger whole, connected by our greater purpose. Unlike the individual nature of junior tennis, college tennis was refreshingly team centric. I loved being in the trenches with my teammates, whether practicing, competing, traveling, or simply blowing off steam. Some of my fondest memories are the more demanding and difficult moments we shared – walking across the Charles River in bone chilling temperatures, taking team-wide fitness tests, playing dual match doubleheaders, riding in the cramped team bus across New England, getting “quadded” with half the team, and taking proctor administered final exams on the road at NCAAs.  It was in these shared moments of sweat, struggle, exhaustion, and support that I truly understood the power of commitment, camaraderie and competitive integrity. 

Above all, I am immensely grateful to be part of this remarkable athletic community. In addition to the unforgettable memories and lifelong friendships, Harvard Athletics has left an indelible mark on my life. I am deeply humbled and thank the Harvard Varsity Club for this esteemed honor.