Troubadour Sports Editor Sam Przybys recently interviewed sophomore tennis player Kevin Suresh. The native of India is enjoying a strong second season at SFU. He leads the team in singles victories in 2025-26.
Q: What made you decide to choose Saint Francis?
A: Being from India and having spent my whole life there until the end of high school, my plan was to join a college in the U.S. because I could play tennis at a high level and still be able to pursue a bachelor’s degree. I came to know about Saint Francis from an agent who helped me get in contact with the head tennis coach. Other important factors were the scholarship, the size of the university, and the fact that it is a Catholic university.
Q: What was the hardest thing about coming to the United States?
A: The hardest thing for me was completing all the required paperwork to be able to attend college and be a student-athlete. Getting my visa and other important travel documents approved was also challenging.
Q: What’s your favorite thing about SFU?
A: My favorite thing about SFU is the overall environment we have on campus. I feel like the people here are really nice. The professors are almost always willing to help you out with anything. I also like how calm and peaceful our campus usually is.
Q: What do you like most about your team?
A: Apart from the tennis side of things, everyone on our team is amazing and fun to hang out with. I am also grateful to have a coaching staff like ours – they have been really helpful to me. I love the fact that all of us want to get better as tennis players and are willing to put in extra hours of work. I also feel like everyone really cares about playing well and winning as a team.
Q: What has been a highlight in your tennis career at SFU?
A: When I won the NEC singles championship and clinched a spot to play in the Conference Masters in San Diego.
Q: Do you have a pre-match ritual?
A: Yes, back home and even now, I always take blessings and advice from my family members before a match. Most times, I pray to God before a game to be with me and my team in our matches. Sometimes, I also read one or two verses from the Bible to give me a little more courage.
Q: Do you have a favorite quote?
A: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.”
Q: Who’s your biggest inspiration?
A: My family.
