Maggie Pate wrapped up the month of June on a high note, winning first place in the Girls’ 18 Singles division at the USTA National Level 2 tournament in Chattanooga, Tennessee. At press time, the Durant High School student was Charleston, South Carolina competing in the UTSA Girls’ National Clay Court Championships.
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How are the clay courts treating you this week?
It’s definitely a tough environment to play in. You’re playing against some of the top girls in the country. It’s stiff competition. It's a grind, but I do feel like I’m prepared for it.
You did pretty well on the hard courts at Level 2 Nationals and this is a totally different playing surface. How do you adjust, going from one surface to another?
Going from hard to clay, clay’s longer points. It’s more taxing. Hard, the points are quicker. I practice on clay and hard. I was able to practice on clay leading up to this, so I feel pretty good.
Which surface do you like playing on the most?
I don’t know, actually. Clay may suit my game style better because I’m more of a defensive player, but both are fine. I’ve never hit on grass.
How were you feeling going into Level 2? Looking at your scores, seems like just about everything was working for you there.
Going in, I felt pretty confident in myself and how I was playing. I was ready to go out and do whatever I had to to win. I played girls where the game styles were completely different, so I had to adjust to each.
What’s your favorite subject in school?
Probably history and English.