Atletico Ace – Junior paces career from land of court giants

Rafael Nadal, David Ferrer, Roberto Bautista Agut, Carlos Moya --- the list of famous Spaniard men's tennis professionals could go on and on.

Jaime Maza Martin may not get to those levels. However, the Morningside University student-athlete did gain a love for the same sport with some of those stars in mind.

"My dad and brother got me into the game," he reflected. "However, I'm like any other Spain sport fan. I know who the greats are, including Rafa. Tennis has peaked in our country in recent years."

While he noted Nadal wasn't an immediate influence in his career, he has taken one of his techniques and developed it into a strength of his own. The multi-time majors circuit winner has long been known for being tough to get serves and returns, especially on the baseline. 

"Ground strokes are my favorite part," Maza Martin admitted. "I love playing from the baseline."

Twenty-five singles triumphs, with 15 coming at number one as part of a career winning record at the position, are proof of success. That type of play and taking leadership of a young team last season and again in 2021-22 has led head coach Alex Struck to count on Maza Martin.

"I've been fortunate for three years to have good teammates to learn from," Jaime noted about continuing a leadership role. "As I've gotten older. I'm hoping the young guys can take something from how I do things."

Maza Martin's influence and an infusion of four impressive first-year players have led Mside to historic heights. They've reached ten dual wins for the first time since 2012 and finished fourth on the Great Plains Athletic Conference standings.

"There is a different vibe on the team and the program," he said. "I like the addition of more international players, as it makes things easier for myself and them with having things in common on and off the court --- allowing a strong connection." 

"Coach Struck has been great," he added. "He has been and is still working hard to make this a great team. Everyone enjoys being around each other on and off the court. There is such great chemistry." 

While loving what tennis has offered him, Maza Martin's favorite pastime is the beautiful game --- soccer. "My family lives near the site of Atletico Madrid's historic Vincente Calderon stadium. I've been a lifelong fan. I watch them as much as possible."