Meet the Hawkeyes: Katie Zordani

Jan. 23, 2012

IOWA CITY, Iowa — University of Iowa freshman Katie Zordani played in three tournaments in her first collegiate fall. The Lake Forest, Ill., native posted a 5-6 singles record that included a third place finish in the McNabb Singles Flight at the Gopher Invitational (3-1 record). Zordani teamed with three different doubles partners, going 6-5. Hawkeyesports.com caught up with Zordani to ask about her adjustment to college tennis.

Why did you choose the University of Iowa?
“I choose the University of Iowa because when I came here I fell in love with the campus and the coaches are amazing.”

What is the difference between junior tennis and college tennis?
“College tennis is definitely a lot harder. Everyone’s in just about the best shape you could be, unlike the juniors. Everyone’s fighting. Some people in juniors tank tennis matches and give up. In college, they have their coach there forcing them to compete the whole time.”

During the fall season, what did you do to keep yourself entertained on road trips?
“We listened to a lot of music on the car rides, but mainly a lot of homework and studying to keep our grades up.”

If you could play a tennis match against anyone, who would it be? Why?
“Most likely James Blake because I look up to him a lot. I think he’s a good tennis player. I’ve read his book and he’s had some amazing stories.”

What is your best tennis memory?
“When I was 12 and I made it to the Spring Nationals. There was 128 draw and I made it to the last day and got fifth place. That was pretty exciting.”

What person has been most influential on your tennis game?
“My parents. They have always provided for me, paid for all my tennis lessons, got me there on time and known who’s the best coach for me.”

What do you like to do in your free time away from the tennis court?
“I like to hang out with my friends, socialize with people and just have a good time in general.”

What is your favorite place on campus?
“The learning center where all the athletes study because you know that it’s the Hawkeye team and everyone has your back and they all support you. It’s a good place to get studying done.”

What impresses you about the coaching staff?
“I like how they’re always prepared and know what you’re going to do before practices. They make everything very individual, so one person can be working on something at the same time as another person, but it will still be helping both people.”

What is your favorite thing about the team?
“We all get along really well. We’re all just about best friends on the team. The coaches are nice and will do anything for us.”

What has been the best part about being a student-athlete at Iowa so far?
“How everyone is so nice to you. The team is a really nice component to have. Just everything about it is great.”