Most athletes look forward to a future of fame, glory and honor, but that̢۪s not what lured Fresno State men̢۪s tennis player Rudolph Siwy from his home in the Czech Republic to come play at Fresno State.

Siwy was looking for a challenge and a school that had a team full of pride and motivation. A team that would test him personally as an athlete.

“I love the Bulldog spirit and pride,â€Â Siwy said. “I felt being a part of their college community was the best opportunity for me to expand as an athlete, so I chose Fresno State.â€Â

Siwy was motivated and convinced to come play for Fresno State two years ago because of coach Jay Udwadia.

“I talked to him on the phone to find out about Fresno State’s tennis program. He really sold me on how hardworking and driven his team was,â€Â Siwy said, “which is exactly the environment I was looking for and needed to become the best athlete I could be.â€Â

Udwadia remembers talking to Siwy that day and informing him of all the opportunities he would have by attending Fresno State and playing tennis.

“It was obvious that this kid was a real hard worker, self-motivated and eager for a real challenge,â€Â Udwadia said. “It was great to get him to realize his potential and that Fresno State would be the best place for him to exploit his talent.â€Â

Udwadia said getting Siwy to play for his team was one of the best decisions he ever made.

“Siwy is truly an asset to this team,â€Â Udwadia said. “His possibilities for success are limitless.â€Â

This is Siwy̢۪s third season playing tennis for Fresno State and he has several goals in mind that he would like to accomplish.

“I want to finish this season and future seasons strong and be able to look back and have no regrets and really feel that I gave it my all,â€Â Siwy said. “Because perfection is not what matters. It’s knowing that you put out the effort, you personally gave 100 percent.â€Â

Siwy loves his decision to come to America and play at Fresno State. Even though he does occasionally miss home and his family, he does find support in the close relationship he has with the rest of his teammates.

“I am really satisfied with my choice and I am amazed by how good the team’s chemistry is,â€Â Siwy said. “Everyone genuinely cares about one another.â€Â

Siwy said the team made his transition from the Czech Republic to America very easy, and that he is discovering the joys of many American customs, traditions and hobbies.

“I dressed up for Halloween last year. I have never done that before. I dressed up as a nerd,â€Â Siwy said as he picked up his skateboard next to him and smiled.

“And this right here, the hobby or sport of skateboarding, I picked up here in America too,â€Â Siwy said. “I am not that great at it yet, but it is great fun.â€Â

Siwy said he learned and gained so much from living in America.

“Americans have this infectious confidence that now has passed to me since I have been living here,â€Â Siwy said. “I am now more confident in my abilities and feel that I can really perform my best because of my new-found motivation.â€Â

Udwadia agrees and has seen an immense change and growth in Siwy since his arrival.

“It was hard for him the first couple seasons being out here on his own away from family and friends,â€Â Udwadia said. “But he has made a complete 180 and really matured, became more responsible and I feel is ready to lead.â€Â