Athlete of the Issue

By: Shelia Headspeth

Casey Miller, 22, has played on Hood’s tennis team for three years. She credits her competitive playing to her improvement in the sport.

Miller has played on Hood’s soccer team for four years.  This year she provided leadership during practices and games.

Miller plays a variety of roles on the tennis team. “I play wherever my coach needs me to play,” said Miller.  “I have played at a variety of single spots and doubles spots,” she added.

Miller did not play tennis competitively until coming to Hood. “I was recruited to the team from a tennis class I was taking with the coach,” said Miller.  “My skills have gotten more consistent through the help of my teammates and coaches,” she added.  “I have started having longer rallies and winning matches, which is a confidence builder.”

Miller encourages other people to join the tennis team because they need players and it is a lot of fun.

“It is an excuse to spend time outside which I love,” said Miller.

She also loves that both the men’s and women’s team support each other. “Because of that, there is a relaxed atmosphere which makes the matches more fun,” she added.

Miller also likes that her coaches are very supportive and said, “There is plenty of support from the coaches which is especially helpful after a tough loss.”

“I usually played at 6 singles when I joined my sophomore year and this year I am usually playing at 3 singles,” said Miller. “I think it is pretty exciting after playing competitive tennis for only 3 years,” she added.

Miller’s biggest accomplishment while on the soccer team was helping her team make history during her freshman year when they won their first CAC play-off game against Stevenson University.

Miller is also a math major and has earner her secondary education certificate.

Miller is a SPUR who mentors other athletes. She is also a member of the Winter Sports Club and a Chi Alpha Sigma member.