Fresno State Athletics
Team Work -- Kim Niggemeyer
2/13/2002 12:00:00 AM | Women's Tennis
Feb. 14, 2002
FRESNO, Calif. - This is Kim Niggemeyer's last season playing tennis for Fresno State. In the past, she listed her goal as wanting to be an All-American. This season her expectations have changed. Niggemeyer wants to concentrate on working hard and being team oriented.
"I want to be the best tennis player I can be," Niggemeyer said.
Although Niggemeyer plays both singles and doubles, she enjoys participating in doubles matches best. She is usually paired with senior Simone Jardin of Brazil. The two have been partners for a year and a half and playing together keeps the women motivated during tough matches.
"We say things to each other to stay pumped up," Niggemeyer said. Niggemeyer credits her long-time partnership with Jardin as a secret weapon. The players are so familiar with one another's moves, little has to be said about plays on the court. The two women work in perfect rhythm.
"This is an advantage our opponents may not have," Niggemeyer said. The weapon has proved beneficial for Niggemeyer as she is ranked higher in doubles play. Niggemeyer says she doesn't worry about what place she's in.
"The ranking changes frequently," Niggemeyer said. "When you're number one, you're the one being chased. It is easier to get there than to stay there."
Another reason for Niggemeyer's success is her speed on the court. Her quickness prevents opponents from hitting shots she can't get to.
"I am very competitive," Niggemeyer said. "I won't ever give up."
Despite the senior's strengths, areas remain that Niggemeyer wants to improve. She and coach Kevin Epley have been working on her serve. He motivates her and her teammates during a game to keep their spirits up.
"My serve has gotten a lot better," Niggemeyer said. "Coach has given me lots of suggestions."
Niggemeyer is from Germany and found many differences between home and the U.S. The idea of school sport teams is new to her. Colleges in Niggemeyer's country do not have athletic programs.
"I like how I can play tennis and get an education at Fresno State," Niggemeyer said. One thing Niggemeyers misses from Germany is the caf?. She and her friends would spend afternoons together at a caf?. She hasn't found any areas in Fresno that captures the same feeling.
"Whenever I go home, it feels like a vacation," Niggemeyer said. "It is good to see family though."
After Niggemeyer completes this school year, she plans on staying in the U.S. for a while. After she and the three other seniors leave, the team will be left with five players. The 2001 All-Western Athletic Conference selection wants to stay in Fresno and help the team.
"I've learned a lot and I want to pass my knowledge on to the younger players," Niggemeyers said. "I want to help with tennis, ethics, school, or anything."
Eventually, Niggemeyer will return to Germany. She would like to work in psychology when she returns home. Until then, this tennis player has one last season to ensure team work as a vital cog in the team's success.
