Harriton’s Saige Roshkoff is Main Line Girls Athlete of the Week

Roshkoff, a senior, has compiled a sterling tennis record for Harriton. Last fall, she posted a 12-0 mark at first singles against strong competition and received first team All-Central League singles honors. As a sophomore, she posted a 15-0 record at second singles through Central League, District 1 and PIAA state team titles, and teamed with Sophia Sassoli to win Central League, District 1 and PIAA 3A state doubles titles as Harriton (20-0) captured the PIAA Class 3A state team title. Off the court, Roshkoff is Co-President of three clubs at Harriton – The Voice Drive, Girls Who Code, and The Medical Club.

 

 

Q: What do you think is the strongest part of your game? What part of your game have you worked on the most in the off-season?

 

A: The strongest part of my game is my ability to take balls on the rise and my mentality. I stay close to the baseline and take time away from my opponents. I always love competing and have great grit and fight on the court. Recently in my game I am working on hitting stronger shots when I am out of position such as higher balls, powerful down the line shots or deep shots down the middle.

 

Q: Tell us a little about the biggest challenge you faced during the past 6 months of the COVID-19 pandemic regarding keeping your game in shape, and how you dealt with that challenge.

 

A: I was very fortunate during quarantine to be able to play tennis every day in my neighborhood with my dad. However, it was difficult not being able to train with my coach. I would regularly Facetime my coach and send him videos of my practices. I also ran, did yoga and worked on my fitness.

 

 

Q: What do you think was your best match of the fall 2019 season, and what was working particularly well for you that day?

 

A: My best match last season was a scrimmage match against Lower Moreland when I played Nikole Lissovy. During the match my teammate Mackenzie Sherman dislocated her shoulder. I was really upset for Mackenzie, but I did my best to stay focused on my match and pulled out a strong win by sticking to my game plan of making lots of deep balls and mixing up the pace.

 

Q: Who are your favorite tennis players? Do you try to pattern your game after any of them?

 

A: My favorite tennis player is Monica Seles. Just like me, she has a two-handed forehand. I strive to replicate her sharp angles.

 

Q: Tell us a little about your start in tennis. Who have been your top tennis mentors, and what was the most important thing you learned from each of them?

 

A: I started playing tennis when I was about four years old. My dad is a tennis player. He introduced me to the game and has been my mentor. Growing up we would always go to Harriton’s tennis courts and train together.

Q: What are your thoughts about the Central League’s recent decision (as of Oct. 5) to play a Central League-only schedule this fall with no PIAA postseason?

A: I was looking forward to having a really strong postseason since it is my senior year. I am disappointed the team will not be able to compete for another PIAA state championship, but I am glad the Central League is considering safety first.

 

Q: Tell us a little about your pre-match preparation the day of a match.

 

A: The Harriton team warms up together, we do a group huddle and a team cheer. We always want to support each other.

 

Q: What is your favorite tennis venue, and why?

 

A: My favorite tennis venue is Indian Wells. My favorite surface is hard court, and the courts there are beautiful surrounded by palm trees in a perfect location in California. It was a privilege being able to compete there a week after they hosted a professional tournament.

 

Q: What do you think you might like to major in at college?

 

A: I plan to major in computer science and get an engineering degree.

 

Fun facts – Saige Roshkoff

Favorite TV show: Friends.

Favorite movie: The Social Network.

Favorite athlete: Monica Seles.

Favorite place to visit: Anguilla.

Favorite pre-match meal: Noodles with butter and parmesan cheese.

Person I most admire, and why: “I admire my tennis coach Sanjin Kunovac. I look up to his positivity and drive to help others. He is so knowledgeable and I learn something new from him every day, whether he is giving tips on the tennis court, an inspirational quote, stock advice, or a funny story.”

Family members: parents Rob and Marla, brother Grant, cat Noodle.

 

(To be selected as Main Line Girls Athlete of the Week, a student-athlete must first be nominated by her coach.)