Spotlight: Athlete of the Week

Daily Vanguard: How do you feel after being named the Big Sky Athlete of the Week?
Alex VanDerschelden: I feel very honored to be mentioned within Portland State Athletics.
 
DV: How do you think the men’s tennis team has done so far this season?
AV: I feel like we made a lot of progress in the last two years and I think we have good chance of making the top four in the conference and even making it to the NCAA tournament.
 
DV: Why did you choose to come to Portland State?
AV: I came to Portland State because it was closest to home and a drivable distance from where I live in Lake Tapps, Wash.
 
DV: What has been your best moment on the field?
AV: My match against Eastern Washington’s No. 2 player. I lost the first set but came back in the last two sets to win the deciding match for the team.
 
DV: If you could change one your sport’s rules, what would it be?
AV: I would probably change the net rule. Like if it hits the net you take two or take one.
 
DV: What is your greatest strength?
AV: My deadly forehand!
 
DV: What is your favorite place to eat around campus?
AV: Chipotle and Buffalo Wild Wings. At Chipotle I have the chicken burrito with black beans every time.
 
DV: What is the first item you would buy if you won the lottery?
AV: I would buy a yacht.
 
DV: Do you have any nicknames? Why?
AV: Vandy, because my last name is VanDerschelden and there are two Alex’s in the team.
 
DV: What was the last thing you cooked?
AV: I cooked stir-fried chicken alfredo in a pan.
 
DV: If you could attend one sporting event anywhere what would it be?
AV: It would be a Blazers playoff game against the Lakers.
 
DV: What has been your favorite class at Portland State?
AV: I don’t know. I don’t really have a favorite class.
 
DV: What’s on your iPod right now?
AV: I have Phoenix, Usher and DJ Caleb. I have a lot of variety in my music.
 
DV: Do you read the Vanguard?
AV: I do once in a while.

—Interview edited for brevity and clarity.