Introducing Eva: tennis player, tennis mom, doctor, and a proud ambassador of her Polish heritage. Here at CourtMerch, we're thrilled to highlight Eva's passion for the game and her cultural pride through our Love/Miłość hoodie. Eva suggested the design, and soon after we were able to add it to the CourtMerch International Expressions Collection. Eva Eva's tennis journey began about 10 years ago, shortly after she relocated to Ann Arbor, Michigan. Balancing her demanding hours at the hospital with family time alongside her husband and two sons, Eva finds joy on the tennis court. Her narrative beautifully weaves together her love for the game with her rich cultural identity.
How did you get into tennis?
I grew up in Sosnowiec, in the South of Poland, and moved to the US during high 
school. I did not have access to tennis in Sosnowiec, but I spent summers visiting my grandmother and there was a nice club with clay courts near her apartment. Although we were not allowed to play on them, I enjoyed watching others practice, while playing on the wall with my cousins. After moving to the US, I played with friends sporadically, but I never learned proper technique or strategy.
school. I did not have access to tennis in Sosnowiec, but I spent summers visiting my grandmother and there was a nice club with clay courts near her apartment. Although we were not allowed to play on them, I enjoyed watching others practice, while playing on the wall with my cousins. After moving to the US, I played with friends sporadically, but I never learned proper technique or strategy.My first consistent tennis lessons started after I moved to Ann Arbor, about a decade ago. After my second son was born, life got very busy. I needed a little escape, and my husband signed me up for tennis clinic at Huron Valley Tennis Club. I felt intimidated at first, but the coaches were great. Their patience and encouragement, coupled with sense of humor, made lessons very fun. After a while, coach Don encouraged us to sign up for a summer USTA league and I was hooked.
What does your tennis week look like now?
I play whenever my schedule allows. It’s my “me time." I wish I could play more but between work and family responsibilities, there isn’t much free time. So I get creative. I try to squeeze in 1-2 clinics per week, plus social play with friends whenever possible. When I don’t have childcare, I bring my boys to my matches. I cheer for their matches and they cheer for mine.
What do you love most about tennis?
Everything! It’s physically challenging. It requires strategy. It’s also great for your soul. I've met wonderful and interesting people playing tennis. Studies also show that tennis makes you live longer. We know exercise is good for your health so it’s not surprising, but the longevity benefit seems to be greater compared to many other sports.
What do you feel are your strongest assets as a player?
I’m not sure, but the feedback I get is my mobility. I try to get to every ball.
You play both singles and doubles. What do you like best about each?
I love the athleticism that singles requires, having only myself to depend on. There are no excuses, I need to run after each shot. Doubles is like chess and the shots come at you faster. I’m trying to get better at reading the opposing team before they hit the ball. You have to be constantly on your toes, literally.
Do you follow professional tennis?
Yes, and it’s a great time to be a fan of Polish tennis players. Iga Świątek is simply amazing and really fun to watch. She has nerves of steel and does not give up. I also admire her humility. I hope one day to paint my face in red and white and watch her play live!
How do you feel in your new CourtMerch Love / Miłość hoodie?
Kocham! I absolutely LOVE it! I wish that I discovered my miłość for tennis earlier in my life. My CourtMerch hoodie is a reflection of my love for tennis and is my go-to piece for après-tennis rest after a few fun hours on the court.