VERMILLION, S.D.—The South Dakota tennis team consists of athletes from all over the world. Freshman
Nanette Nylund came to USD from Tuusula, Finland, because of the tennis team, the atmosphere and the nursing program.
Like a lot of kids, Nylund was competitive growing up. She enjoyed figure skating at a young age, but after watching her brothers play tennis, Nylund started thinking about focusing on that sport.
"Both were individual sports, which is what I liked about them," said Nylund. "I just had to decide which one I wanted to continue doing. Tennis and figure skating were both one of a kind, but overall I just enjoyed tennis a little bit more. I wanted to perform for myself, rather than perform to people."
She loved tennis so much that in 2012, right before she started high school, she took a year off of school to focus on tennis. She moved to Miami, Fla., to better learn English and get a new experience. Her coach at the time also moved there from Finland and she was able to live with him and his family. She practiced at a club with other girls her age.
"The cultural differences were a big part," said Nylund. "This time of my life actually helped me choose USD when it came to picking the school that was right for me."
The size of Vermillion and the atmosphere helped her with that decision. She enjoyed being in Florida because of all the nice weather, but it was so different than back in Finland. She likes both summer and winter, the same seasons she grew up with in Tuusula. The atmosphere was a plus as she was able to adapt to everything so much easier in South Dakota. She also got along really well with the team.
The cherry on top is South Dakota's nursing program.
"School is a little bit different here, especially with the language," said Nylund. "You just really have to put forth the effort to study. I've always wanted to be a doctor or a nurse and South Dakota had a great program. I just want to help people and be able to do some good."
Get to know Nylund a little more:
- Favorite Athlete: Roger Federer, he's a legend
- Favorite food: Salmon, I eat a lot of fish
- Favorite animal: Dog, I have a poodle back home
- How do you prepare for a match:It's different here, because there is a team. Back home for individual tournaments, I was just by myself. It's easier to get ready when everyone is pumped up and ready to compete. I also listen to music.
- Dream job: In the medical field, to help people
The Coyotes have this weekend off and will be back in action Feb. 18 and 19. The team travels to Minneapolis for duals against the SEC's Missouri and the Big Ten's Minnesota.
