East County Athlete of the Week: Hayley Roberts

Hayley Roberts is a tennis player from GreyHawk Landing. Roberts finished fourth in the Girls' 18s division of the Bobby Curtis junior sectional championships, held June 8-12 in Orlando. Roberts is a four-star recruit and the No. 120 player in the national class of 2025 according to the Tennis Recruiting Network. 

When did you start playing tennis?

I started when I was 5 years old. My family put me into a lot of different sports and tennis was the one that stuck. 

What is the appeal to you?

I enjoy the individual aspect of tennis. It's all on me. I get the glory when I win and I feel all of the pain when I lose. 

What is your best skill?

I have worked a lot on the mental side of the game. At the Bobby Curtis event, I handled all of the big moments well. I was able to think clearly even though it was hot and we were playing two matches a day. I'm also consistent. Now that I can drive myself to practice, I can go a lot more and get in more hits, and that has helped. 

What have you been working to improve?

My shot selection. I am trying to use my forehand as much as I can, and I don't want to let my opponents get into a rhythm. I'll mix in slices or drop shots or loopier shots to do that. 

What is the status of your recruiting process?

I'm still pretty open. I'm looking forward to this summer and competing in front of more coaches. I'll be at the Clay Court Nationals in Delray Beach in two weeks, and then I'll be at the Hardcourt Nationals in San Diego in August. It will be the best players in the country coming together, and all the (top) coaches go, so it's a big deal. 

Do you get nervous to play in those bigger events?

I try to push it out of my mind when I'm competing. At this point I have matured enough that I know how. There are coaches there, but I still need to focus on the matches. If a coaches sees what I can do, that's great. They are not going to cross me off their list if I make one error. I just focus on what I need to do on the court. 

What is your favorite food?

Sushi, especially California rolls. 

What is your favorite TV show?

That's tough. I like "The Vampire Diaries" a lot. 

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy doing things outside. I like to go fishing with my brother (Todd Roberts) or go to the mall with my friends. I like to try new food at restaurants. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Trust yourself and take accountability for your decisions. And that's on and off the court. 

Finish this sentence: "Hayley Roberts is …"

Bubbly.