UIC tennis player Callan Smith takes time out for a Q&A with the Horizon League
April 2, 2007
What is the best aspect of being a part of UIC's tennis team?
We work hard but we love to have fun.
What is your most memorable moment as a UIC Flame?
When Shannon knocked over the entire gum/candy display at 7-11 when we were at regionals.
Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
Married with kids, maybe working part time.
What is your favorite Coach Tully quote?
"Spread it around a little bit!"
What do you enjoy doing most in the off-season?
Sleeping in!
What is your least favorite practice drill?
The 50 ball drill.
Why did you decide to attend the University of Illinois at Chicago?
Because my sister was there so I already knew all the girls and Shannon.
What's one television show you can't miss each week?
"The Hills"
What is your best non-athletic talent?
I'm sure the girls on my team would say one thing...but I'm going to go ahead and say that I can play the piano.
Where is your favorite place to hang out in Chicago?
Definitely at my apartment.
What is your favorite song?
It varies from week to week.
Where in the world would you like to spend a week's vacation?
Ireland.
Could you describe what is was like to have your older sister Molly as one of your teammates last season?
We had a blast together. We get along well for the most part so it was great having someone who I knew I could always talk to.
What is the one luxury item that you can't do without?
My cell phone, I feel lost without it.
What was it like making the transition from growing up in Leawood, Kansas to living in Chicago?
I actually came from going to school in Milwaukee to living in Chicago so it was a slower transition from a smaller city to Chicago. It wasn't a huge transition because I had spent a lot of time in Chicago with my sister before I transferred.
Was there any particular event in tennis history that fueled your desire to excel in the sport?
Not really. All of my siblings have played Division I tennis so it was kind of known that it was what I was going to do. Growing up in a family full of tennis players, there was always someone to play with.
Could you describe the most embarrassing moment you have ever experienced?
I can't think of one off the top of my head. I'm really clumsy so there are too many to even count.
Who is the most impressive person you have ever met?
I know it seems a little cliché, but my dad.
What is your favorite movie?
"Elf"
What is your favorite food?
Probably chicken.
If you could have one super power, what would it be?
I would love to fly because I don't have the patience to sit in traffic.
Who is your favorite actor/actress?
Brad Pitt and Reese Witherspoon.
What is your dream job?
Anything that has to do with working with kids.
If you could get front row tickets to any sporting event, now or in the past, which would it be?
The Super Bowl.
What would people find surprising about you?
I don't eat fruits or vegetables.
Do you have any advice for young athletes who aspire to compete at the college level?
Just work hard and stay focused.
