San Quentin’s tennis team plays most weekends against outside players from local colleges, professional teams, and the Marin Tennis Club. The men told the San Quentin News what drives them on the court.
“I keep playing tennis because I enjoy the idea that my shots keep getting better. There is always the thought that I may make a killer topspin rip across the court to make the point. Oh, that is a great feeling! Of course there are some good days and some bad days. That is the way it goes.” – Jason McGinnis
“I enjoy the camaraderie and it’s a lot of fun. There’s a lot of good guys I get to play with. It’s good for my health because I’m a heavy guy and it’s something I can take to the street with me. Playing tennis helps me to stay focused and from worrying. It is also great to be able to play guys from the streets like the college athletes who teach me things like bettering my back hand. It’s a blessing.” – Marc Jordan
“I love the fun and the challenge of learning something new. Tennis is a sport where there’s always something you can work on like serving or my backhand. As long as it stays fun, I’ll be on the court.” – Chris Schuhmacher
“My health. Also it is a way to be the athlete that I always was early on. There are workouts involved as you become more aware of the sport, which does not always happen in another sport. The challenge is the thrill of putting it all together.” – James Taylor
“I think the camaraderie and the competition are things that motivate me in strengthening my game. It helps me relieve stress. It also helps me with my communication skills because I get to socialize with people from the outside communities.” – Orlando Harris
