Catching up with Natalie Novotna

Freshman is thankful for the game of tennis because it opened so many doors for her, including living in the United States

January 5, 2017

BLACKSBURG - The Virginia Tech women’s tennis team boasts a roster of talented, skilled and interesting student-athletes. In an effort to learn more about their lives on and off the court, HokieSports.com will interview select Virginia Tech women’s tennis players each week.

This week, we sat down with freshman Natalie Novotna.

What differences are there from your hometown to Blacksburg?

Natalie Novotna: In the Czech Republic everything is closer, not so spread out. I live in a small village, but I attended school in Hradec Kralove, which is a town near my village. There are many historical buildings that look different. Blacksburg is pretty young in comparison.

Where are your favorite spots to go on campus?

NN: I like the Drill Field, and the Duck Pond is beautiful as well. I love sitting on the bench and relaxing a little bit.

What got you involved with tennis?

NN: I've tried a lot of different sports. I did gymnastics, track and field, swimming and ballet. Then my mom brought me to the tennis courts just to try something new. It turned out that I really liked it. I did ballet and tennis together for a while, but then tennis won.

If you could play another sport, what would it be? Why?

NN: I don't know if you can consider it a sport, but I still like ballet. The elegance and control of movement is pretty amazing.

Who do you look up to the most? Why?

NN: I look up to my parents. They are a huge inspiration to me.

As an incoming freshman, what brought you to Hokie country? How has your time as a Hokie been so far?

NN: My coaches from Tech convinced me to become a Hokie, and I am really glad and thankful for the opportunity I was given. My first semester had its ups and downs, but it was amazing. This was my first time in the United States, and I have so many great experiences and memories. I have met so many new friends.

What’s your favorite tennis memory?

NN: I really enjoyed playing in Florida this past fall. I was there with three other girls, and we supported each other a lot.

What has tennis done for you?

NN: Not just tennis, but all sports taught me how to schedule my time and be respectful. I learned how to listen to my body and also stay tough mentally. Tennis opened the door to the United States for me, and I would not be the person I am today without playing it.

NOVOTNA’S QUICK HITTERS:

Favorite team to face: I’ll find out soon

Favorite thing to take on a road trip: A book and sunglasses

Favorite class: English

Favorite food: Sushi

Favorite vacation spot: Anywhere with my friends

Biggest fear: Darkness

Biggest pet peeve: Breaking promises

Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or Snap Chat? Instagram

One word teammates use to describe you: Responsible

Who is your celebrity doppelganger? My teammates call me Princess Peach

For more information on Novotna or any of the players on the 2016-17 roster, follow the program on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.

For updates on Virginia Tech women's tennis, follow the Hokies on Twitter Follow @VT_WTennis