Jessica Robinson, the dedicated tennis coach at Altus, recently shared her insights and experiences in an interview, shedding light on her aspirations and the profound impact of her coaching journey.
Personal Goals for the Year
Robinson is committed to fostering a successful tennis season where her athletes can fully realize their potential and develop a genuine love for the sport. She emphasizes the importance of hard work and talent, aiming to motivate her players to excel and witness the fruits of their labor.
Memorable Coaching Moments
Reflecting on her coaching career, Robinson cherishes the moment when one of her players, Aubrey, secured third place at the state level. Having coached Aubrey since her junior high days, witnessing her podium finish in her senior year was a fulfilling experience. Robinson treasures the numerous memories of engaging practices and exciting tournaments.
Influential Teammates
Among the many players Robinson has coached, Alex Bianchi, a former foreign exchange student from Italy, stands out. Known for his humor and kindness, Alex not only excelled in tennis, finishing third in singles at the state level, but also exemplified exceptional teamwork and friendship. Robinson values the relationships formed through coaching, considering them the most rewarding aspect of her career.
The Essence of Team Spirit
Robinson highlights the mental and physical demands of tennis, noting the significant growth in her athletes’ confidence and presence on the court. She appreciates the supportive nature of her team, where players consistently encourage and challenge each other to improve.
Involvement Beyond Coaching
Beyond her coaching duties, Robinson serves as the Social Studies Department Chair and an Instructional Technology Coach. She is also actively involved in Link Crew, a program that cultivates leadership skills in juniors and seniors to mentor freshmen, a role she has embraced for nearly a decade.
Life Lessons from Tennis
For Robinson, tennis is a constant reminder that failure is an opportunity for growth. The sport teaches resilience, as players must navigate mistakes and adapt quickly during matches. This mindset of perseverance and self-assessment is something Robinson applies in her daily life, focusing on the journey rather than just the outcome.
Words of Wisdom
Robinson recalls a piece of advice that has stayed with her: there are two types of people – those who seek attention and those who uplift others. This philosophy guides her to prioritize others and help elevate them, a principle she strives to embody in her interactions.
Inspirational Figures
Robinson draws inspiration from her mother, who exemplifies kindness and dedication in all aspects of life. Her mother’s teachings to never do things halfway and to leave things better than found resonate deeply with Robinson, influencing her approach to family, work, and sports.
Gratitude and Acknowledgments
Expressing her gratitude, Robinson thanks the Altus Public Schools community for their support throughout her career. She also acknowledges the students who make her job rewarding, appreciating the opportunity to pursue her passion every day.