As she plays her final season of scholastic tennis at Mission Bay, Rosina Valia hopes it is one to remember. The senior is the No. 2 singles player for the Bucs.
According to head coach Trong Tong, going from practically a beginner in her freshman year to being a team captain the past couple seasons, Valia has been an invaluable asset to the team. “She prides herself on exhibiting exceptional sportsmanship at all times,” Tong said. “She is always respectful to not only the coaches but also her teammates as well as her opponents. Rosina shows true leadership skills by being helpful to newer players and supportive of all her teammates while having strong work ethics. “In leading by example, she has a nearly impeccable attendance record when it comes to practices. At the same time, Rosina constantly strives to improve or help others improve during practice, and she has become a more versatile player as a result,” Tong said.
“She has gone from playing No. 1 doubles in years past to competitively playing No. 2 singles this season, which is a testament to her willingness to get out of her comfort zone. Lastly, she also doubles as the team manager for our boys’ tennis team, which has been an absolute blessing for me as a coach.”
Tong went on to say that this season could be one Valia will look back on with a lot of smiles when all is said and done.
“A couple of seasons ago, Rosina and her doubles partner, Amanda Edmunds, were literally just a few points away from an Individual CIF berth, but things, unfortunately, didn’t go their way,” Tong said. “I’m quite hopeful that she’ll turn that around in her final season with us as she more than deserves it after all her hard work and dedication. Despite being new to our singles lineup this season, I expect that Rosina has what it takes to qualify for Individual CIF and also hopefully lead her teammates back to Team CIF.”
Beach & Bay Press recently caught up with Valia for an interview.
BBP: How did you get started playing tennis and at what age?
Valia: I started playing tennis my freshman year. My mom told me about it and it sounded like a fun sport to try.
BBP: What have you enjoyed most about playing tennis at Mission Bay?
Valia: I love all the new friendships you make within your own team and other teams. Everyone is super nice and supportive including the coaches.
BBP: Did you set any goals for yourself in this your final season at Mission Bay?
Valia: This year, my biggest goal is to make it to individual CIF for the first time and to help my teammates get there too.
BBP: Are you involved in any volunteer or community activities outside of school?
Valia: I am not currently involved in any out of school volunteer programs, but I am an active member of the school’s Eco Club.
BBP: Are you planning on college next year and possibly playing tennis too?
Valia: I am definitely planning on going to college, hopefully at my dream school Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and playing tennis even if I just hit on weekends for fun.
Editor’s note: Mission Bay High varsity fall sports coaches are welcome to email suggestions for player profiles in upcoming issues. Email: [email protected].
