My name is Gavin Murrie, a junior men’s tennis player at the University of Dubuque. I am from Lindenhurst, Illinois and am a marketing major. I have found a profound appreciation for both physical and mental health. As a student-athlete, my journey on the court has placed demands on my mental health. The mental demands exceed the technical skills and physical fitness needed, but my focus on learning and relying on a positive mindset has allowed me to be successful. Mental focus in competitive tennis is an extension of the physical strength needed. Each set and match represent a new set of challenges which requires me to adapt to different players and style of play, to stay calm under pressure, and to overcome mistakes. The highs of winning can be exciting, and the lows of defeat can be demoralizing, so a match can flip a match quickly. Understanding the pressure on the court helps me learn how to manage stress and stay focused. Beyond personal growth, I am dedicated to improving my physical and mental preparation and to fostering mental health on campus and my sports team. I believe tennis is a fantastic way to encourage an active lifestyle, while fostering positive mental health. I look forward to continuing to make personal changes and advocating for the importance of personal health. Thanks to Spartans Supporting Physical and Emotional Health for encouraging me to understand and promote wellness and learning how to manage stress and develop a strong mindset.
