Editor’s note: In appreciation of the members of the vast Florida tennis community, all throughout April USTA Florida will pay tribute to the high school, collegiate, and club tennis seniors who have seen their respective seasons cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Rather than let achievements and accomplishments both on and off the court be overshadowed by unexpected challenges, USTA Florida has given some of these seniors the chance to share the positives and successes they’ve had.
22-year-old Constanza Gorches is a senior at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville and a member of the women’s tennis team. Gorches has played two seasons with the Ospreys and posted identical 7-5 overall records in singles and doubles during the fall of her senior season. Prior to transferring to UNF, Gorches competed in her freshmen and sophomore seasons as a Clemson Tiger. Tennis has taken this Mexico City native to more than 15 different countries – which is also the same amount of years she’s been playing the sport. When she’s not on the court, Gorches is studying for a Business Management degree.
How did you get involved in tennis?
I used to be a member of a tennis club with my family near my house and I tried playing one day and loved it.
What’s your favorite thing about the sport?
It is a complete sport where I use physical and mental abilities. I also love competing and solving problems which is something tennis gives me.
What led you to ultimately choose UNF when you were selecting the college you wanted to play at?
I liked the facilities and the weather in Jacksonville. I also heard that the business program is good.
Of all your tennis achievements at UNF, both individually and as a member of the team, which was your favorite moment and why?
Winning conference last year because it wasn´t just the tournament, but the effort throughout the whole year to get there.
What is your favorite memory from your career at UNF?
I don´t have a specific one but all my favorite memories come from the times that I shared with my teammates inside and outside the court.
How has your game developed while playing college tennis?
I developed my ability to compete well under pressure and stay positive when things aren´t going as expected.
What is the best part of being on a team?
Being part of something bigger than myself and having constant support from my teammates. Just knowing that we got each other´s back and giving our best effort every day to get better for each other.
What does tennis mean to you?
It means fun and opportunities to grow as an athlete and as a person.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
I hope to keep growing personally and professionally by finding new opportunities. Also, keep setting goals and try my best to achieve them.
What are your goals for the future?
Stay healthy by having good habits and working out. Study a Master’s degree and find a job where I am happy. Also, keep the relationships with the people that I met through college, especially my teammates.
What advice would you have for high school tennis players and high school athletes, in general, looking to play collegiate athletics?
Surround yourself with good people. Create relationships where you push each other to be the best version of yourself. Keeping yourself accountable to set goals and try to achieve them with hard work and enjoying the process.
