Once again in 2021-22, Virginia Lottery presents "Inside the Nest", a series of profiles of UMW Athletics student-athletes and staff. The latest featured student-athlete is sophomore Riley Smith of the women's tennis team!
Name: Riley Smith
Sport: Tennis
Hometown: Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Major: Business Administration
Favorite Class:
Finance
Favorite Professor:
Dr. Teresa Kennedy
Favorite part of being a umw student athlete:
Having the opportunity to play the sport I love in amazing facilities with like-minded individuals all working towards the same goals.
Favorite thing to do in Fredericksburg:
Go shopping in Downtown Fredericksburg
What has playing at UMW meant to you:
Playing at UMW has meant not only a chance to play at the collegiate level, but has more importantly introduced me to people who push me to be better on and off the court. It has presented me with challenges which have led to the greatest experiences of my life.
Fun fact about me:
I am a UGA football fan
Favorite UMW memory:
Travelling to Chattanooga with my teammates for the NCAA's Elite Eight.
Post-Graduate Plans:
Attend law school
I would like to thank:
My parents and siblings for continuously loving, supporting, and inspiring me, my friends, for pushing me on the court and in the classroom, and the Hagino family, for introducing me to Mary Washington. The coaches who never gave up on me, especially my trainer, Russell McDonnell, and my high school tennis coach, Victor Fissella. All those who make my UMW experience special; my teammates on both the men's and women's tennis teams, who are like a second family, alumni Rachel Cooper, who I will forever consider my captain and close friend, and Coach Todd Helbling, whose dedication, enthusiasm, and support made our Spring 2021 season something we will never forget. Finally, I would like to thank Dr. Ed Hegmann, for his generosity and dedication to UMW tennis.
What do you think is the most important characteristic in being a good teammate?
The most important characteristic in being a good teammate is selflessness. When someone puts the team's needs before their own, they demonstrate their dedication and commitment to the team, which makes the team united and successful.