Women's Tennis

Friday Focus with Alexa Wanamaker

TOWSON, Md. – Every Friday, the Landmark Conference spotlights one of its standout student-athletes in the Friday Focus series. This week’s feature highlights Alexa Wanamaker, a member of the Susquehanna University women’s tennis team. From navigating the mental side of the game to finding confidence in new roles on the court, Wanamaker shares what drives her on and off the court as a River Hawk.

What’s your favorite memory competing for Susquehanna University?
My favorite memory was freshman year, when I was playing doubles for the first time in a match. I had only ever played doubles during practice and never in high school. It was nerve-racking, but my doubles partner helped me get through my anxiety, and I ended up having a great time playing doubles that match.

What drew you to tennis originally?
I was drawn to tennis because it's a unique combination of performing as an individual as well as being a team sport.  Doubles works on playing with a partner and good communication, while singles is completely a mental game with no one but yourself and your opponent.  I really liked the idea of being able to have both in the same sport.

How do you prepare the night before a big match?
I make sure to get a good full night's worth of sleep along with a balanced dinner and lots of water.  I also like to listen to music before I go to sleep to help me relax.

Who inspires you most on your team, and why?
My teammate Claire inspires me the most. She always has the best attitude and is one of the kindest people I know.  As a teammate, she is always optimistic and there to cheer you on, even when it might be a very difficult moment during a match.

What’s your go-to hype song?
Enter Sandman - Metallica

Postgame meal of choice?
I love to go for pizza after a match. Especially when we are on our way back from a match and have to head through New Jersey, because then we're able to get some great pizza!

Hidden talent most people don’t know you have?
My hidden talent that not a lot of people know about me is that I love art.  I really enjoy drawing and painting as well as crocheting.

Favorite athlete growing up?
My favorite athlete growing up was Rodger Federer. I always admired his composure and style of play.

Favorite class or professor?
My favorite class is definitely Principles of Psychology with Dr. Ungson.  He is an amazing professor and very understanding of all of his students. I really enjoy learning more about what a mindset is and how it is shaped and developed, which actually translates to playing tennis.

First college match — what do you remember?
I remember being extremely nervous and jittery before even starting to play, and this continued for the beginning of my doubles match.  After the first few points, I began to relax. It felt just like any other match, just louder and more intense.

One word your teammates would use to describe you?
Resilient