OPRC Member Spotlight: Jenny Havens

by Mike Holder:


Jenny is originally from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. She moved to New York City when she was 7 years old and lived there for over 20 years. She earned a business degree, but she has a passion for science, as well. In her free time, Jenny translates and interprets from Spanish to English and substitutes at different schools. She loves to travel, dance, and try new things. She has been married for 9 years and has an 8-year-old son and a 6-year-old daughter. She likes living in Charlotte but enjoys skiing out west and sunbathing in the Caribbean. 


What is your tennis background and what made you interested in the sport?


I started playing tennis five years ago after my daughter was born. My husband was worried that I would get bored in Charlotte and want to move back to NYC if I didn’t have a hobby, so he encouraged me to take lessons. Now he complains that I play too much!  


What is the biggest lesson you have learned with tennis? 


To keep my composure and be persistent. There have been many times when it has seemed almost futile to continue a match when I am down by so many games and nothing is going my way but maintaining or regaining my composure, staying focused and persistent has helped me succeed more often than not.  


How has tennis helped you in life?


Tennis has helped me stay mentally and physically healthy. During quarantine, I realized how vital it is for me to stay active, be outside and socialize, all of which I do when I play tennis. 


In your opinion, what is the best quality to have in tennis?


Mental fortitude. Tennis is a mental game, especially if you play in women’s interclub, haha! 


What is your biggest accomplishment or favorite memory of the sport?


Winning my first Terri’s Tennis Ladder Singles and Women Doubles a year after my first tennis lesson. 


What is the best piece of advice you could give about the sport? 


Tennis can be addictive. As tempting as it is to enjoy the beautiful weather and play tennis every day, it’s important to allow your body to rest and recover. 


What are your favorite shots? 


I love the drop shot and would love to someday master it. 


Who are some of the players you look up to or enjoy watching? 


Serena Williams and Roger Federer. 


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