Christina Bonelli has enjoyed every experience after transferring to Franklin Pierce

(Editor's Note: Anthony Chighisola recently caught up with women's tennis senior Christina Bonelli as she was busy preparing for the spring season. Bonelli transferred to Franklin Pierce from Western Oregon following her freshman year and has enjoyed every experience in Rindge. She has been quite happy with her move from the west coast.)

By Anthony Chighisola
Athletics Feature Writer

AC: Why did you choose Franklin Pierce?

CB: After my freshman year of college at Western Oregon University, and not sure what I wanted to do, I decided to come to Franklin Pierce because I had a couple of really close family friends who were here playing sports and told me it would be a good chance for me to get a good education as well as try out for the tennis team. I also wanted to get away from the west coast for awhile and experience other parts of the country.

AC: What has been your favorite moment about playing tennis at Franklin Pierce?

CB: I don't think I have one favorite moment in general. I have loved everything about the experience of playing here, but I will never forget the road trips and the stupid things we do and say at practices; mostly whenever someone gets hit with a ball we all laugh.

AC: What's your view/opinion of all the new athletic teams being brought to Franklin Pierce?

CB: I think the new athletic teams will definitely bring in more students to both play the sports and to watch them as fans. I think they are great additions to an already great athletic program.

AC: What's it like being a student athlete at Franklin Pierce?

CB: Being a student athlete can be a real challenge at times. Between tennis, homework, and a job on campus, I am constantly busy and always trying to schedule my time so that I can balance everything. However, I wouldn't change anything from my past three years here.

AC: Who has been your role models while growing up?

CB: I would have to say both of my parents and my brother. I have a small, but really close family. My brother has played hockey since I can remember and he went to college and played the sport. After seeing that he could go away from home and do it I knew I could too. And my parents have always been there for me and worked hard to do everything they can for both my brother and I. I really appreciate everything they have ever done for us.

AC: What player or players do you look up to the most on the tennis team?

CB: I would definitely say our captains Natasha (McCarthy) and Katie (Krolikowski). They are both wonderful people who know a lot about the sport and are not afraid to give a little advice. In practices both girls are constantly telling us "move your feet more" or "don't swing down." It is great for the team to know our captains are supportive of everyone and want all of us to succeed.

AC: What do you feel you bring to the tennis team?

CB: I think we all individually bring support and motivation to the team. I know that for me personally, I try my hardest to watch everyone play during a match and really cheer and motivate them through the points. Sometimes all you need when you're playing is to know your team is there rooting for you.