Athlete of the Week

Name: Juan Cruz Soria

Classification: Sophomore

Major: Finance

Sport: Tennis

Hometown: San Juan, Argentina

Who is your favorite athlete?

“Lionel Messi.” Messi is a forward for Fútbol Club Barcelona.

Who is your role model?

“David Ferrer.” Ferrer is a Spanish professional tennis player.

What is the best advice you’ve ever been given and by whom?

“My previous coach would tell me that talent is not enough, that we need to work hard to be successful.”

What do you like to do for fun?

“I like to play tennis, hanging out with my girlfriend and spend time with my teammates.”

When did you begin playing tennis and why did you start playing?

“I started when I was 3 years old and I started because my dad and my big brother played tennis, so I wanted to do the same as them.”

Did you play in high school and did you get any awards?

“I didn’t play with my high school, but I played for my club in high school. A lot of junior competition in Argentina and South America.”

What are your goals for the season?

“Individually, improve and get better on my game. With my team, of course, it’s going to be to win the conference and that’s my main goal.”

What is your favorite movie?

“Gladiator.”

Is there a song that gets your head in the game?

“I like Nirvana and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Sometimes, when I’m nervous, I think of some other songs, but not a specific one.”

What are your plans for the Fall 2015 semester?

“With tennis, it’s to get better. Maybe go to the All-American in Tulsa and regionals.”

How do you feel about being part of the first UTRGV Men’s Tennis Team?

“I’m pretty excited because we’re the first tennis team and I want to represent UTRGV the best way I can.”

–Compiled by Jacqueline Arias