The experience of playing tennis at one of the military academies can be quite different than the experience at other colleges and universities.
The experience of playing tennis at one of the military academies can be quite different than the experience at other colleges and universities. While all tennis recruits should consider the challenges and opportunities provided by the schools and tennis programs they are considering, those considering playing tennis at one of the military academies have some unique factors to consider. We asked players from three service academies some questions that can provide insights on what it’s like to be a student-athlete at one of the United States Military Academies.
Questions and Answers
STEFANIE TON played at the US Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. Stefanie is from Milpitas, CA and was as a 3-star player ranked 244 nationally on TRN.
Donovan Tennis Strategies (DTS): When visiting the Naval Academy and non-military schools, what did you identify as the primary differences between Navy and the other schools you considered?
Stefanie Ton (SV): The difference between Navy and other schools is the environment…I guess at the Naval Academy I could tell that the students had a much higher responsibility than other college students due to the fact that they were graduating to lead other people. From the tennis aspect, the coaches understand the big responsibility the students have and the coaches not only give players the guidance and support for tennis, but also guidance for life. Also for the academic side, the teachers seem much more involved in helping students succeed. I have received a lot of support from teachers and faculty members in school as well as in tennis. I feel as though the staff working at the Academy wants everyone to succeed and is always around to help. Teachers know students by first name and personal information in small classroom settings.
(DTS): Describe a typical day during the season:
(SV): 0700 Morning Formation/Breakfast
0755-1155 Classes
1200 Lunch
1230 Lifting with the tennis team
1330-1530 Classes
1600 Tennis practice
1900 Dinner
2000 Homework
(DTS): Has the experience been what you expected?
(SV): My experience at the Naval Academy has been very rewarding and has exceeded my expectations. I have learned a lot about myself the past 3 years and I believe that the Academy has shaped me to be a more confident and capable leader for the future. It has been challenging to say the least, but I wouldn’t change my decision to attend this school. I don’t think anyone can really “prepare” for the experience at the Academy. I believe that in order to be successful at the Academy means truly immersing oneself into learning and rising up to challenges when they arrive.
(DTS): Describe the rivalry with Army.
(SV): The rivalry is very competitive and brings spirit to both schools. There are some banners in certain athletic buildings that show our rivalry with Army but always respectful. Our two tennis teams are each other’s biggest rivals. We have lost to them in the Patriot Championships two years in a row and every year is a new chance to go after the title against them. In football, swimming, any sport against Army is a big competition. I believe the rivalry is a part of the tradition of the two schools and it is really cool to be a part of that.
(DTS): What advice would you give a tennis recruit who is seriously considering one of the service academies?
(SV): My advice would be: Do your research. Ask a lot of questions and research the opportunities that are available to you during your time at the Academy and after. Make sure you are making this decision for yourself and no one else because at the end of the day, you are the one who is going to the school. My biggest piece of advice is: understand that these military academies will be a challenge, but if you like a challenge and want to see how much you can accomplish, go for it and you will surprise yourself.
JOEY HATALA played at the US Military Academy in West Point, NY. Joey is from Waxhaw, NC and finished his junior career as a 3-star player ranked 268 nationally on TRN.
Donovan Tennis Strategies (DTS): What factors led you to want to consider one of the service academies?
Joey Hatala (JH): I always knew that I wanted to come to West Point. I was drawn in by the opportunities it offered in the future and the incredible quality of people that it graduates. Also, the camaraderie among these schools is special and cannot be replicated. Once I pictured myself here, I couldn’t imagine being anywhere else because the experience seemed so unique.
(DTS): Describe the application process and the additional steps required by military academies.
(JH): To get into the service academies, you will need to fill out a lengthy application that requires physical, medical, and academic clearance. Next, you will need to get an appointment by a congressperson or senator. There are other ways to get nominated but these are the principle routes and require their own applications with interviews. With a nomination in hand, you allow yourself to be put up for actual appointment (acceptance) into the academy. This was the avenue I took. There are many other options into actually earning a spot at these schools.
(DTS): Army has a large team. Has that presented any problems or challenges?
I really enjoy being part of a large team. Since I’ve gotten used to being around so many teammates, I couldn’t imagine being on a smaller team. The big support system is not only very helpful on the court, but it is a great asset to have so many teammates willing to help with anything from my academics to my military grade off the court. Everybody has had experiences that I will face and they are always happy to help me out. Not to mention, it is nice to have a large group facing the same challenges.
(DTS): How intense is the rivalry with Navy? As a freshman is it too soon to tell or is it clear the moment you step on campus?
(JH): The rivalry with Navy was immediately clear. The bragging rights are huge in every match up. No matter what the sport, you hear about it whenever we beat Navy.
(DTS): What advice would you give a tennis recruit who is seriously considering Army or one of the other service academies?
(JH): Know the priorities and reasons that are deciding your college choice. The commitment that comes with the service academies goes beyond 4 years so come knowing that it is the place for you to be. It is all your decision and if you decide a service academy is the best option for you, you will get through it and have no regrets.
JACK McCullers played at the US Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO. Jack is from San Marcos, CA and was a 4-star recruit ranked 118 nationally on TRN.
(DTS): What factors lead you to consider the Air Force Academy?
(JM): I wanted the opportunity to serve my country and also still have the opportunity to play division 1 tennis.
(DTS): When visiting the Air Force Academy and the non-military schools, what did you identify as the primary differences between Air Force and the other schools you considered?
(JM): Besides the guys at the gate holding rifles welcoming you to school, the primary difference is the environment. At Air Force there is this training environment all around you, you start to understand that this place is a military institution with the goal of making each of its students into officers. Other coaches talked about their programs, while Coach Oosterhous talked about all aspects of the academy, making it plainly clear that the academy is not an easy place.
(DTS): Has the experience been what you expected?
(JM): Somewhat… I had no idea that it was going to be such a grind every day to survive as a freshman, but the tennis team is always there to pick you up through rough times. When you take a step back and realize where you are and what you are doing, you feel like you can accomplish anything and that what you are doing means a lot.
(DTS): What advice would you give a tennis recruit who is seriously considering one of the service academies?
(JM): Evaluate what kind of person you are and that if the military is something you would like to be a part of. They will hammer home here that these places aren’t for everyone, but if you feel like this is the right place for you, which I felt, a service academy is one of the greatest life experiences anyone can have. Times will be tough, but you have a family to help you through it, which is your team.
Donovan Tennis Strategies
Donovan Tennis Strategies has been helping prospective college tennis players and their families navigate the recruiting process since 1997. In addition to consulting services DTS runs two College Prospects Showcases to help players get exposure to college coaches.
