Melissa Vivian is a senior on the women's tennis team at Judson University.  She is from Dixon, Ill., and a member of the Judson Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

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Although Judson's tennis program is a new addition to Judson's organized sports, 6'1'' Junior Melissa Vivian is no stranger to the sport. Since the age of five, Vivian has played on and off then picked it up for all four years of high school. Before attending Judson, this Dixon, Illinois native played at Sauk Valley Community College for two years.

Amongst the many compelling reasons to pick Judson, Vivian tells of multiple incentives to commit to the university. "I chose to come to Judson because I was able to play a sport that I love for a scholarship," Melissa explains. "Judson has a great psychology department and I love the environment that surrounds Judson's campus."

While at Judson, Vivian shares some of the lessons learned on the court as well as the benefits of keeping close ties with her teammates. "I have learned that although I may not be happy with how I have played at times, I have not let anyone down as long as I play my hardest and to my best ability," she relays. "That is all I can do for myself and my team."

She also expresses her thankfulness for the team, comprised of those who quickly became friends as the season progressed. "I love the girls and the guys on the tennis teams here!" she exclaims. "We all click really well and have a good time. We hang out even when we do not have to and everyone is very encouraging."

The skills Melissa strengthens during tennis are those that will be invaluable further down life's road. "Being an athlete has taught me a lot of things," Vivian begins. "Most importantly, I have learned leadership, how to be a team player, responsibility, discipline, determination and focus. All of these characteristics are important for a person to have in a career and throughout life." Melissa chooses to foster these attributes at Judson, believing it will carry over into a successful career for her after graduation.

During tennis season, the Lord has also encouraged Vivian by revealing blessings match by match. "Playing at Judson has helped me to realize how truly blessed I am. Working with my coaches and my teammates has challenged me to become a better player and strive to do my best constantly," Melissa shares. "Not only have I learned ways to improve my skills, but I have also worked on my character as well."

Although the season will bring inevitable ups and downs, Vivian explains that that her knowledge of Christ's unconditional love gives encouragement, even amidst disappointment. "Sometimes when I mess up, I am really hard on myself. When I remind myself that Christ is on my side and He thinks I am amazing, I can lift myself back up and continue to play my best," Melissa concludes.

Vivian relays one of her favorite tennis memories - the fall tennis meet against Dominican University. She had played a tough doubles match and immediately went into another singles match. "My teammates and coaches were all sitting along the sidelines of the court rooting me on," she recalls. "I felt so empowered and motivated by them even though I was exhausted. "

Vivian goes on to state how intense the game was and how well her opponent played. "She would hit [shots] from corner to corner, but somehow I got to them and hit them back over the net…Eventually I won," she declares. "I can honestly say that was one of the most fulfilling, exciting wins in my entire life."