Inspire Her Q+A with Sonja Keranen
2/2/2022 8:00:00 AM | Women's Tennis
1. When did you first start playing sports? What was the first sport you ever played?
I started swimming when I was a baby and started taking it seriously at age of 5, competed until the age of 13. I did a lot of different sports in the short term like soccer, badminton, judo, boxing for a year, basketball for 2 years at the age of 11-13, I started tennis at age of 7 and am still going.
2. How has your involvement in your sport shaped who you are today?
By doing a lot of different sports, I have a feeling that it is easy for me to adapt. I have done a lot of scheduling since I was young, so I like to try to keep my days and weeks organized. I do great in a team, as when you go to your practices you get to see your friends. Tennis is a very mental sport, you need to think ahead and change plans if they don't work, this has developed my analytical thinking and skills.
3. Why do you love being a college athlete?
I love being a college athlete as it gives you a sense of professionalism. I get to meet new people and other athletes, I get to represent a school. I get high-level education and different career opportunities.
4. Who is someone that inspires you as a woman in sports?
I have always been a big fan of Serena Williams, a legendary female tennis player. It's an honor to have someone like her representing females in sport. Naomi Osaka is a new future star in tennis, fighting for females in sport. Equality in sex and race is always a big thing that we are still impacting on, normalizing mental health is a huge thing currently in sports.
5. How do you hope you inspire athletes at Georgia Southern and other young women and girls in sports?
I hope to be a great role model and inspire people by showing that we can do whatever we want to do. We have many opportunities and we do deserve them. I try to encourage and support people to discover their passions. I want to tell my story, giving a positive impact.
6. What would be your advice to a young girl who wants to be in your position as a college athlete?
My advice for young girls and future college athletes would be to, try different things, take advantage of the opportunities we are given. It requires a lot of work, courage, and a bunch of failures. Never quit, keep going! This will make you super strong and you can overcome any obstacles now and in the future!
