A Tennis Stud From Overseas
Lopez Villa Talks about Transitions
Written By: Sarah Roby
Contributing Writer
Old Dominion’s fiercest freshman on the tennis courts is far from home and the Monarchs are glad to have him here. Carlos Lopez Villa is a freshman from Madrid, Spain and is enjoying his time here at Old Dominion University, while showing up on the courts with exceptional skill. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches with only 18 years under his belt, Lopez Villa is a major asset for the ODU men’s tennis team already.
Lopez Villa started playing tennis in his childhood, and was considered the best around his way by 13. In 2006, he won the tennis championship of his age group in the country of Spain, he was a national champion. He continued to play tennis for his High School, Ortega y Gassett and his club team, Tejar de Somantes.
“It was a late decision,” Lopez Villa explained about choosing ODU. He did not make his decision about ODU until June of this year, just three months ago. Lopez had been in contact with the coaches of the tennis team and finally decided that ODU was his best option. “It seemed like the best opportunity for me.”
When talking about the transition from playing overseas to playing in the United States Lopez Villa said that, “It is difficult and sometimes lonely.” He is far from his home and family, so homesickness sinks in every now and then, but Lopez loves his teammates. “I love the campus,” he said of ODU. Lopez Villa says the tennis team has great communication and chemistry. The team spends a lot of time together not only on the courts, but off the courts as well. They go to events around campus such as football games, soccer games, and field hockey games.
When it comes to preparing for matches, Lopez Villa uses his team for motivation. “We meet up and talk before each match,” Villa said. He also explained that they like to listen to all different kinds of music to get them pumped up and ready.
Lopez Villa brings great offensive skills to ODU. “I have a good forehand and good attack,” he said with assurance, continuing on to what skills still need improvement, Villa admitted “but I need to work on my defense.”
The past tournament the tennis team played in proved Lopez Villa’s competitive passion. Lopez Villa had a record of 3-1 and then came in second during the finals.
“Our goal is to be the best team in our conference,” he stated when speaking about his goals. Not saying I or only talking about his self, but including his team without hesitation. He has great confidence in his team and in his own skills. He knows what his strengths are and what he needs to work on. Lopez Villa’s humbleness and passion will push him to do amazing things here at ODU.
Photo taken by Rachel Chasin
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great article by contributing writer, Sarah Roby! I wish Carlos Lopez Villa in his transition to the US and his first tennis season at ODU.