NAOTB: Ruby Cooling
Why did you decide to come to Texas A&M?
I think for me it was the professionalism of the whole program. When I came on my visit, it was really clear that everyone worked hard here, the program was well run and the coaches were dedicated.
What is your favorite Aggie tradition?
I haven’t experienced loads of them, I still need to go the Midnight Yell. I feel like I need to experience that.
So far, what is your favorite part about Aggieland?
Honestly, the people. I feel like when I’m walking around everyone is so welcoming and so kind. I think it’s just a great environment and a great atmosphere.
Have you found a favorite restaurant in College Station?
It’s so basic but I have to go with Chipotle, I can’t go wrong with it. We don’t really have it in England so it’s kind of special.
How has it been fitting in with the team so far and getting to know your teammates?
It’s been unreal. I feel like we’re a really tight bunch of girls. I feel like we definitely clicked straight away. We work hard together, we relax together, we like to spend a lot of time together so it’s been really good.
After a long day of playing tennis, what is your favorite thing to do?
Honestly, have a good meal and then I’d say to try and relax, find something good to watch on TV with my roommates. I just try not to think about tennis too much and try to get my mind off things.
When did you realize that you belonged here at Texas A&M?
I think pretty much as soon as I got here at the start of this year. Right at the start, it’s a big place, it feels kind of intimidating, but like I said, everyone is just so welcoming so it made it pretty easy very quickly.
How did you get into tennis and at what age did you start playing?
I started playing when I was four at my local club. My parents just thought it was a good idea to throw me into tennis, so I would play the little junior squads from a very young age.
When did you realize you could take your game to the college level?
I kind of looked into college level at about the age of 14 or 15. I think it was definitely something I was considering, but it became a bigger dream at the age of 16 and so I kind of knew it was going to be for me.
Who is a player that you have looked up to during your career?
Aryna Sabalenka. I feel like her dedication, her attitude on the court, the way she fights and grunts and lives for the game is really inspirational.