Sophomore Dominic Hodgson traveled a bumpy road on his way to playing collegiate tennis. The London native dropped out of school at the age of 16 in order to pursue a professional tennis career. Shortly after joining the pro circuit, Hodgson encountered his first road block – a serious injury.
“I got a stress fracture in my back. It was pretty serious,” Hodgson said. “I tried to play through it, but it got worse. I ended up having to sit out for a year of competition.”
In order to get back into the swing of tennis, Hodgson decided to travel to the United States and try college tennis.
“My injury–that’s the reason why I’m in America,” Hodgson said. “Because college tennis was the best choice for me to get back on my feet and back into competition and it’s worked well.”
Hodgson decided on N.C. State because he’s visited North Carolina several times and said he felt most comfortable here.
“I’m half American so I’m used to America,” Hodgson said. “I’ve been to North Carolina quite a few times and really liked it. That’s why I came here. I knew the area better than any other place in America.”
Hodgson transferred to State in January 2009 but was ineligible to play for an entire year. Due to NCAA rules, an athlete cannot take off more than a year of school and play collegiate sports.
“He had to serve a year of residence at N.C. State before he was eligible,” coach Jon Choboy said.”
According to Hodgson, transitioning to America was never a problem. It was being unable to play competitive tennis that was the issue.
“My whole life has been based around sports ever since I was seven years old,” Hodgson said. “It was frustrating times. Having to sit out a year and watch the guys was tough, but it’s been worth it.”
Hodgson put on his State jersey in January, just a few short months ago, and has already made a huge impact on the team. He is currently 14-6 overall playing either No. 1, 2 or 3 singles.
“Dom is a great attribute to the team,” junior teammate and roommate Rob Lowe said. “He’s solid. He’s consistent. He works really hard and he leaves everything out on the court.”
Coach Jon Choboy said Hodgson is someone he depends on not only in during matches but also to lead the team.
Being a first year player, I’ve put a lot on his shoulders,” Choboy said. “I expect a lot out of him and he expects a lot out of himself. We work him real hard and he delivers. I’m not going to put something on someone they can’t handle. He has my respect.”
The team said they also respect Hodgson for all he’s been through and how he still continues to work hard every day, according to Lowe.
“Even though this is his first year, he leads the team because he works really hard and everyone looks up to that,” Lowe said. “Dom brings the best out in people. He’s a quiet individual but when he speaks, it means something. People listen to what he has to say.”
