After completing an All-American Tennis season in which he finished 10th in the Region, Virginia Union University's Anthony Michael was still hot while he competed in the United States Tennis Association Southeastern Open Tennis Tournament on June 14-15 at Battery Park in Richmond, Va.

Although he had not played in a competitive match since the season ended, Michael's time away from the tennis court hadn't been spent relaxing or just idly enjoying his summer vacation. 

"I've been working out a lot, with football summer workout with the strength and conditioning coach," he explained.  "It's coming along really well because I'm really determined to improve myself. It's a new sport for me, so I'm hoping by the end of the summer, I'll be at the state I need to be."

Starting on Saturday morning, each player competed in a "win or go home" format. However, the lone survivor at the end of the tournament was the gentleman wearing the maroon shirt with the interlocked "VUU" logo on his shirt.

Michael competed in two matches on Saturday, June 14, and one more before the final on Sunday evening.

"It was a really good feeling and I was very excited," Michael said.  "The guy I played against in the finals was very determined to win, so I had to stay tough, because playing more than one match in a day isn't easy.

Looking forward to next VUU tennis season, Michael hopes to go undefeated and earn CIAA player of the year.

Virginia Union University wishes all the best for Anthony Michael and the entire men's tennis team!