By Pia Perthen, Sports Editor
Saint Leo athletes are always active during the summer by pairing hard work with summer relaxation to get ready for the upcoming fall season. One of these hard-working athletes is Luzia Obermeier, a dedicated tennis player whose day-to-day summer routine offers a glimpse into the summer break of a driven student-athlete.
A typical day during summer break
Obermeier, a junior from Bavaria, Germany, usually starts her day off with some oatmeal and coffee to prepare for practice at the tennis court from 8:30 – 11 a.m., followed by a half-hour run.
After morning practice, it is time for lunch. Between 12 to 2 p.m. (depending on afternoon plans), Obermeier gathers with her practice group to refuel. A favorite meal is a salad paired with a pretzel or a vegetable pita, providing a nutritious combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and vitamins essential for recovery.
Her afternoons consist of giving tennis lessons, engaging in match practice with teammates from her local German team and other players, hitting the gym, and meeting up with friends. To wind down, Obermeier likes to spend time with her family, pet her cat and watch television.
“In the mornings, I practice with a group of tennis players who consist of other college players and pro players,” Obermeier said. “In the afternoons, I practice with teammates, my brother, or other people I know.”
A multifaceted summer
While tennis is Obermeier’s primary focus, she takes advantage of the summer months to explore other interests. Running has become a significant part of her routine, culminating in her achievement of completing a half-marathon on July 2. Obermeier participated in the Sportscheck (half-marathon) Run in Munich, Germany, and finished her race in one hour and 42 minutes.
“I am not a track athlete, so for me, it was a huge deal to be able to run 21 kilometers, and I was especially happy about my result since I was not able to run until last October due to an injury,” Obermeier expressed.
Additionally, Obermeier plays volleyball with friends and maintains a regular gym routine. Reading and swimming also find their place in her varied summer activities.
Obermeier’s summer escapades extended beyond Bavaria. She was able to travel to cities like Salzburg (Austria), Munich (Germany), and Augsburg (Germany) to explore new surroundings and embrace diverse experiences. A fascinating journey led her to Hungary, where she accompanied a friend to a pro tennis tournament, marking Obermeier’s first time in the country.
Striving for excellence: Preparing for the season
Looking ahead to the upcoming tennis season at Saint Leo University, Obermeier is focused on enhancing her performance by working on her footwork and agility, addressing areas of weakness from the previous season.
Obermeier also played a couple of tennis tournaments this summer to stay in competition mode.
“I played many tournaments [this summer]because I am a player who needs to keep the competition going so that I can perform my best tennis when returning to Saint Leo,” Obermeier emphasized.
Obermeier competed in the Bavarian Championships and managed to play herself through to the last eight. Another highlight was winning both the women’s and mixed doubles categories in a local tournament with her partners, evoking a sense of nostalgia and accomplishment since the tournament took place in the tennis club where Obermeier first started playing tennis.
“It was probably the most fun tournament I ever played, and it was amazing to see so many people I have known my entire life watching my matches,” Obermeier said.
Aspirations for the upcoming season at Saint Leo
As the summer days come to a close, Obermeier eagerly anticipates her return to Saint Leo University and escapes the cold and rain that have frequently dominated Germany’s weather forecast this summer. But what Obermeier is looking forward to the most is staying with her new roommates and living away from home again. She likes being on her own and creating good memories while living with her best friends.
“I am definitely looking forward to returning to Leo land,” Obermeier said. “I cannot wait to see all of my friends and teammates again; I really missed them over the summer.”
Since the tennis season will start in spring 2024, Obermeier and her team have some time to prepare themselves and create a united team bond.
“I know that we will have a lot of fun in the season and some tough matches to play,” Obermeier expressed. “I am excited to give it all we got and hopefully end up qualifying for nationals in May next year to play for the title!”
