The Rider 
PHOTO COURTESY UTRGV ATHLETICS
Valentina Urraco is a biology senior from Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina and has played tennis for UTRGV since 2022. Last season, she went 4-2 in doubles with a 3-2 record at No. 3 doubles.
Q: What is a fun fact about yourself?
A: “I like to watch movies or TV series during my free time.”
Q: Who or what got you started in tennis?
A: “Actually, I’m the first one in my family who plays tennis, but everyone in my family plays a sport. I was in my club all day playing sports but, once I started tennis, I really liked it. So, I continued.”
Q: What has made you continue tennis?
A: “I continued only with tennis because, to me, it feels like there is always something to improve. You always have something to improve or change, so I love that about tennis.”
Q: Who has been your biggest inspiration or role model?
A: “I would say my family. My parents, they are both hard working and, also, my other sisters and my brother. I like the way they play their sports. I always feel motivated by them.”
Q: Who is your favorite tennis player?
A: “Rafael Nadal from Spain.”
Q: How do you mentally prepare for a game?
A: “I always text or call my family before; I like to talk with them. And then, I like to be well-prepared so I focus on having my rackets ready, my clothes, my bag.”
Q: What kind of music do you listen to?
A: “I love music. I listen to literally all types of music. I listen to Spanish but also English music like Billie Eilish, Drake. Music from Argentina is my favorite.”
Q: Which shows or movies do you like to watch?
A: “Comedies. My favorite TV show is ‘Breaking Bad.’ I just finished watching it.”
Q: Do you have any hobbies?
A: “I like to run, or go to the gym.”
Q: What do you like most about UTRGV?
A: “I like that there are so many cultures. In my team, we are all from different countries so far away. We are all different, but we are all here in a community.”
Q: What are your biggest goals?
A: “I would say to win … conference and graduate next year.”
—Compiled by Mariajose Garza
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