Sophomore Torin Ching is currently a political science major and comes from Honolulu, Hawaii.
Why did you choose USF and what other universities were you considering?
I chose USF for it’s close location to Hawaii and academic reputation along with a great opportunity to play NCAA Division 1 Tennis. I also was considering University of Pacific, Loyola Marymount, and University of Hawaii. I don’t regret my decision as my experience has been rewarding.
How did you get started in tennis?
At 7 years old my father took me out to Kaneohe public park and that is where it all began. I admired Michael Chang when I was younger and watched many of his spectacular matches. That gave me motivation to want to excel in the game of tennis.
What are your plans for summer of 2007?
Academically, I plan to keep focused on my academics by taking summer school classes back home at the University of Hawaii. I plan to play the ITA Summer Circuit in Southern California with teammate Mitch Del Rosario( Fremont,CA) as well as Open tournaments with Assistant Coach Billy Ball. I look to keep working on my conditioning and prepare for the Fall of 2007.
What are your thoughts about the 5th/6th WCC Conference Match tomorrow against University of Portland?
University of Portland is a solid team in singles and doubles. In March we lost a heartbreaking 5-2 decision to them in the Boise State Invitational. We all knew as a team we were capable of winning but we did not play up to our potential. Because of all the hard work throughout the season such as our 6a.m. Morning Madness(7 miles at Ocean Beach) runs along with countless hours spent in the weight room and on the tennis court we are prepared and realize that it has all come down to this last match of our season. After the bitter taste of losing to them in March, we look to recover and finish strong especially for our lone graduating senior Matthew Berry(Capetown, South Africa).
What is the biggest difference you have noticed in the level of play in your transition from Hawaii to here at University of San Francisco?
In college tennis the guys have more weaponry such as bigger serves and ground strokes. There are longer rallies with more shots having depth. Players are more relentless and never willing to give up. Teams support is a big advantage and there is a lot more camaraderie within the team.
What do you fellow teammates call you?
My teammates call me T.K., Cha-Ching, Hawaii, Mama- Ching, Kim Kui, Massive Calves, and Torn.
Why do they call you Mama-Ching and Massive Calves?
Teammate Tommy Tu started to call me Mama-Ching at a team dinner because I always clean up after everyone and as team captain make sure they are following instructions. Matthew Berry decided to call me massive calves after he figured out I have the biggest calves team (which is not true). Actually freshman Einar Hart has the biggest calves on our squad.
As a player for the University of San Francisco what would you like to best be remembered by?
I would like to be remembered by my teammates as the person who has the best work ethic on the court in the weight room, and is a person who is the first person to be at practice and always the last one to leave. I know with hard work, the rest will take care of itself. Go Dons!!!
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