Natelie Swailes is a senior on the Niles tennis team.

 

What has been one of your greatest

accomplishments as an athlete?

NS: One of my greatest accomplishments as a tennis player and athlete was taking the No. 1 spot on my team this season.

What has been one of your biggest

disappointments as an athlete?

NS: One of my biggest disappointments was our team being two points from reaching state last season.

What has been a hardship in your life?

NS: When I was in eighth grade, I struggled with anxiety and panic attacks. It sometimes still happens. My anxiety is an ongoing battle.

Who is a “hero” in your life and why?

NS: My grandmother, Kathleen Baker because she beat breast cancer and is very selfless.

When are you the most nervous while you are competing?

NS: I am most nervous during my tennis matches, but the nerves are good.

Describe an embarrassing athletic moment.

NS: Once when we were at practice, I fell, but instead of staying down or crying, I got up and yelled “I’m hardcore.”

How do you tend to workout/train when by yourself?

NS: I try to keep myself strong and positive mentally at all times and I also attend tennis academy.

What other sport would you like to compete in if you were not playing yours?

NS: I would have loved to play women’s lacrosse, but tennis is where my passion is.

Why are sports an important part of a high school experience?

NS: Sports teach students how to multitask.

How would you give away $50,000?

NS: I would donate to tennis programs for kids with special needs or to develop such programs for cities, countries.

If you could be the head coach of a team for a year, what team would you choose?

NS: Our tennis team because I would love to coach my home team.

If I did not play sports, I would…?

NS: I would watch sports religiously on television or in person.

What is the most challenging thing for you to do in your sport?

NS: Tennis is a very mentally challenging sport, so staying focused, motivated and positive is a challenge.

If you could change one rule about your sport, what would it be?

NS: I wouldn’t change anything. The sport is extremely fair and challenging and amazing as is.

What is the best compliment you have ever received?

NS: Whenever someone compliments my tennis technique and skills I feel very accomplished because I have invested a ton of time and effort into improving.

What was the scariest thing you have had to do? Are you glad you did it?

NS: Playing at the No. 1 spot has been and still continues to be intimidating, but I am extremely happy to take the challenge.

What was the last thing you saw someone do that really impressed you?

NS: I was very impressed when I saw the recent interest in equal pay for women in professional sports such as tennis and soccer.

What is your favorite hobby? Why?

NS: Playing tennis, because it is addicting and it is a deep passion of mine. I could play for hours and never get bored.

Choose one word to describe yourself:

NS: Determined.