VYPE: Keiwon, what grade are you in this year and what age did you start playing tennis?
Keiwon Landrum: I am in 12th grade and started playing tennis at 13.
VYPE: What are you playing?
KL: We alternate between playing doubles and singles, but I primarily play in No. 1 doubles.
VYPE: What are your strengths and what have you improved on most this season?
KL: My main strengths are my net play and forehand. I have improved my serve and backhand skills.
VYPE: What do you love most about being a student-athlete at MWC?
KL: We not only have a long tradition of winning culture, but we also have a largely diverse school community that helps me improve as an athlete with various competitors.
VYPE: What are your biggest challenges as a student-athlete?
KL: As a high school tennis player, my biggest challenge is learning to take losses as lessons.
VYPE: What does the support you receive from family, coaches and friends mean to you?
KL: The support of my parents and coaches drives me to succeed. They have provided me with the tools I need to thrive, and I feel a responsibility to honor their support by becoming the best version of myself using those tools.
VYPE: How do you mentally prepare yourself for competition?
KL: I tend to be more by myself. I run through images of practice breaking down my technique making sure I am staying consistent with my play. I often listen to Gospel music; it really ignites my passion.
VYPE: What do you love most about your teammates?
KL: My teammates often remind me to have fun because sometimes I get so competitive that I lose sight of the enjoyment in the sport.
VYPE: What are your plans for life after high school?
KL: I plan to attend the University of Oklahoma, majoring in Health and Exercise Science to become a physical therapist.
VYPE: Who inspires you?
KL: My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, inspires me. I have been growing in my faith through His word. Every time I reflect on what He has done for us, it reminds me that there is always more I can do, and it encourages me to keep going.
VYPE: What accomplishment are you most proud of as an athlete?
KL: My greatest accomplishment is being accepted into my dream school, the University of Oklahoma.