Q & A With Tennis Sophomore Stephanie Kebler
9/13/2006 12:00:00 AM | Women's Tennis
Sept. 13, 2006
EAST LANSING, Mich. - Michigan State sophomore Stephanie Kebler (Okemos, Mich.) made an immediate impact on the Spartan tennis team in her freshman campaign, going 5-5 in Big Ten action in both singles and doubles. Kebler led the team in wins, posting a 16-7 record for the spring season (12-6 at No. 4, 4-1 at No. 5). Her first singles title as a Spartan was at the Northwestern Invitational last fall.
Q: What are your personal and team goals?
A: My personal goals for the fall season are to improve on my consistency, footwork and movement in order to be ready for the spring. We're the same team as last year so our overall goal is to improve on what we did last season.
Q: How do you think the team is handling the coaching transition?
A: It's been positive so far. We really like Erica (Perkins) and Stefan (Naughton), and we've really enjoyed it.
Q: How would you describe the team's mentality?
A: We're very close and very excited for the season.
Q: How is your involvement on the team different than last year?
A: It's different because I am no longer a freshman, and I have a year of experience under my belt so I have more to contribute.
Q: You went 5-5 in the Big Ten in singles and doubles last year, how will that year of experience help you in conference play?
A: I learned a lot from last year and I feel more confident now. I played against a lot of different girls with different styles, so there will be no surprises.
Q: Why did you choose Michigan State University?
A: Growing up in Okemos, I always wanted to come here. I knew a lot of girls on the team. MSU has a great program and facilities, and I have always loved the campus.
Q: Do you think living close to home has helped you with your transition to college?
A: It made it a lot easier, if I ever need to go home for even a day I can.
Q: How have you been able to balance school work and competing?
A: They have so many services for us, like the Smith Center, and I have been taking summer courses to lighten my load during the year.
Q: What is your most memorable experience at Michigan State University?
A: Our win over Ohio State. That was a big match, so it was a lot of fun.
Players Mentioned
