Cycling helps improve Young’s athleticism
With a love for cycling and a gallon of water in hand wherever he goes, the tennis courts are where Dennis Young can be found at USU.
This season has had its ups and downs for tennis veteran Dantley Young. Begninning his fitness career at West Jordan High School in West Jordan, Utah, Young has found his niche as an Aggie after a short-lived career with the University of Utah.
“I played my first year at the University of Utah,” Young said. “I did not get along well with the coach. This was a school that I was also looking at to play tennis for, and I ended up transferring here because Chris Wright, the head tennis coach, is a great guy. He’s really relaxed, doesn’t put a ton of pressure on us and likes to have fun, and that’s something that I’ve really enjoyed.”
With a visit from Idaho State University on April 17, Young won his sixth singles match, aiding in the 5-2 Aggie victory. This came after a difficult loss against Weber State on Feb. 8 as Young lost 6-3, 6-3, and the Aggies were defeated 4-3.
“I’ve had other focuses,” Young said. “With my cycling, I’m trying to do that professionally. That’s kind of taken away a little bit of my drive on the tennis court, but I’m starting to play a little bit better now each match.”
Progression throughout the season has been a process of understanding what matters is not trying to go for the big shots, Young said. Some people have no problem doing this, but for Young it can be difficult. He has to keep doing what he can to improve within his boundaries, he said.
As the season and Young’s time at USU draws to a close, Young said he feels the burnout that comes from countless hours spent practicing. But what Young enjoys most about the game is the competition, the drive to improve himself and really discover who he is, he said.
“I’ve learned what I can do and what I can do well,” Young said. “I’m not necessarily somebody that’s going to go out and hit a lot of winners when I play, but what I can do is use my fitness really well. That I’ve developed through cycling and apply that on the tennis court. I think the biggest thing that I’ve learned is my best way to play tennis.”
Winning against Brigham Young University was the best match Young has played this season, he said. Seeing both wins and losses this season has been a bit of a struggle, but defeating BYU has brought back a sense of what can be done, he added.
Last season saw Young in the basement of the Sports Academy and Racket Club at the first home match where Young was down 5-2 in the third set and the score was 30-love. Young made a huge comeback and won 7-5 in the third. Young said this win was the best in his career at USU and offered a push toward a stellar season.
“I haven’t done that well this season compared to last season,” Young said. “I started out as the No. 3 singles spot, and I’m down to No. 6. I’ve kind of struggled a little bit. Compared to last year, it hasn’t been as good.”
Missing from Young’s days at the University of Utah was team compatibility,