April 19, 2011

PHILADELPHIA - Today’s “Getting to Know” features sophomore Sam Accardi, who joined the men’s tennis team last fall.  The Stone Harbor, N.J. native picked up a win for the Explorers this spring against Arcadia, defeating his opponent 6-1, 6-0. 

What has been your favorite moment as a La Salle student-athlete?
My favorite moment was definitely traveling to Orlando for spring training with the team.  We worked hard, but also had lots of fun in the warm weather.

When did you start playing tennis?
I started playing tennis my junior year of high school for fun and then joined the team my senior year, gaining the first singles position.

What are some of your other campus activities?
I am a Resident Assistant and I also play guitar at Sunday masses in the LaSalle Chapel. In my free time I like to swim at the pool and go to the gym.

What do you like best about La Salle?
I like that the school has a tightly knit community. I am very close with several professors and Christian Brothers on campus. I also love the location in the sense that I am only a 15 minute subway ride away from anywhere in the city.

If you could play doubles with anyone person, who would it be and why?
John McEnroe: he had a very intriguing style, and if things didn’t happen to go our way, I would love to watch him have an infamous “blow up” on the court.

What’s on your iPod right now?
I like all kinds of music, but some of my favorites are Jack Johnson and Sublime.

Who do you look up to/inspires you? Why?
I definitely look up to my parents. They raised me very well and taught me that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.

Favorite away match memory?
In Florida, I cooked for the team and we all ate together each night. It was a good bonding experience. We would all just sit around the dinner table, joke around, and have a good time.
   
Best advice you have ever received?
Work hard, and don’t give up!

Favorites:
Place on campus? Tennis Courts
Sports Team? Flyers
Movie? Shawshank Redemption or Dumb and Dumber
Food? Filet Mignon
Color? Blue
TV Show? Entourage
Vacation Spot? Hawaii