Justin Fries a Leader for Men’s Tennis

Junior Justin Fries has become a leader on and off the court for Keuka's men's tennis team.

By Robby Magee/Sports Information Assistant
Like all Division III student-athletes, Keuka College junior Justin Fries (Marion, NY/Marion), a member of the men’s tennis team, didn’t receive any athletic scholarship money to come to Keuka Park as he pursued his childhood education degree.

On top of mastering his ground strokes and perfecting his serve, Fries, a three-year member of the Storm’s tennis team, knows he has to juggle a rigorous and demanding class schedule along with attending all of Keuka’s tennis practices.

Whatever the task at hand, Fries simply loves a good challenge. Despite taking on some of the toughest courses the Education Department has to offer while also balancing a loaded course schedule and planning for his student-teaching assignment, Fries is a prime example of a student-athlete who is able to manage all of his challenges while still excelling on the court and in the classroom.

“It can be nerve-racking (playing tennis) because it’s just you out there, but I am constantly trying to improve and challenge myself,” said Fries, who only started playing tennis during his freshman year at Marion High School but has served as the Storm’s number one singles player each of the last two seasons.

“You never know when the momentum in a match can turn. You must be able to recognize this in order to turn a match into your favor.”

Fries is pursuing a teaching career where he hopes to one day challenge his students to be the best they can be while also instilling in them a strong desire to never stop improving.

Fries admits he is readily able to recognize his weaknesses, and pushes himself to work hard to correct those weaknesses.

“I definitely learn more from loses rather than wins. Wins are great, but after a loss I do my best to find what I need to improve on. Tennis is an individual sport where the work you put in is highlighted on the court. I can win for me each match, but I must always know what I need to improve on, work hard, and step up to the challenges each match throws at me.”

The Storm have taken their lumps in recent years, concluding the 2013 season with an 0-11 record. Fries posted a 2-7 record at first singles, tied for the most wins by a Keuka student-athlete, and is widely credited with being a great team leader, both on and off the court.

“I have never seen a player more focused than Justin,” said sophomore Julian Diaz (Tuscaloosa, Al./Paul W. Bryant), who often teamed with Fries at first doubles.

“When Justin is on the court there is no way of distracting him. His hard work and focus are what make him a valuable asset to the team.”

The way he conducts himself on and off the tennis court will surely make him an influence to his students in his teaching career.

The Justin Fries Profile

Class: Junior.
Major: Childhood Education
What do you like most about Keuka? “The friendly, close knit, family atmosphere.”
Where do you see yourself after Keuka? “A 2nd grade classroom teacher.”
What is your favorite class at Keuka? “Education of Diverse Learners with Dr. Love.”
What is your favorite spot on campus? “Point Neamo.”
What is one thing you can’t do without? “My cell phone.”
Who are your inspirations off the tennis court? “My parents and grandparents.
Any superstitions before a match? “Must put left sock on first and tie my shoes three times!”
Who is the funniest player on the team? “Rich Matrassi”
Who is your favorite athlete? “Carmelo Anthony. Go Syracuse!”