Thompson, Carter Win USTA/ITA Sportsmanship Awards

2013 NIIC Event Scroll
Thompson, Carter Win USTA/ITA Sportsmanship Awards 

Singles champion and semifinalist honored by USTA and ITA


FLUSHING, NY (Nov. 11) - Clay Thompson of UCLA, the 2013 USTA/ITA National Indoor Intercollegiate Singles Champion, and ITA Preseason No. 4 Freshman Hayley Carter of North Carolina added to their trophy case this weekend as they were named the 2013 USTA/ITA Sportsmanship Award winners at the USTA/ITA National Indoor Intercollegiate Championships, hosted by Columbia University at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.  


Thompson won five matches in New York without dropping a set, pushing his win streak to a remarkable 15 matches. His on-court attitude has been the biggest change in his game, and a clear head led to his first ever national title at any level. The Bruin is a huge asset to his team, whether it be winning matches or cheering on his teammates.

"I think relaxing, taking everything in perspective and enjoying the moment has all helped me become a more mature person and, in turn, a better sport in tennis," Thompson said. "It's just respecting the game. When the guy hits a great shot, there's no reason to be upset. He played a good point; that's great. That's exactly what you want when you're a tennis player."

Carter, a freshman on the Tar Heels who participated in the Singles and Doubles Championships, came very near to withdrawing from both events.  A concussion almost denied her this opportunity, but Carter was cleared to play and made the most of her opportunity in Flushing. 

"I didn't play for 10 days before the tournament, so to get to the semifinals is an incredible run for me," Carter explained. "I just really enjoy playing tennis. I try to have fun every single point, no matter what the score is. You can't play the game for that long, so I try and enjoy every moment I'm out here." 


Thompson and Carter were selected by a panel of coaches, officials and tournament committee members.

 

For additional coverage of the 2013 USTA/ITA National Indoor Intercollegiate Championships, including access to draws, please visit the official ITA event page. Follow the ITA on Twitter, @ITAtennis, or like the ITA Facebook page for news about Flushing. Search the term "NationalIndoors" to find others who tweeted about the USTA/ITA National Indoor Intercollegiate Championships. 

  
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