Tennis player has 'big' game, successful record

Standing at 6-foot-4 and 214 pounds, men's tennis player Rahman Smiley would be an intimidating tight end. Just imagine stepping on the tennis court against him. \nAnd if the junior's size failed to frighten an opponent, a tennis ball flying his way at about 130 mph surely would. \n"His whole game is big," coach Ken Hydinger said. "He's a winner and a national-level doubles player."\nBeing a winner is not new to Smiley. In high school, Smiley posted an impressive 100-7 singles record, which included a state singles crown and another finalist appearance. Smiley led a team that captured four state championships and won 122 consecutive matches. \nThe Union, N.J., native was a star outside of tennis, also playing basketball. In his freshman year, Smiley was named to the All-State Honorable Mention team. Smiley gave up basketball to focus on tennis. His approach worked, and he made the jump from the hustle and bustle of New Jersey to rural Indiana. \n"It's a lot slower here, and I kind of miss the fast pace," Smiley said. "But people here are more friendly, and it's a lot cleaner. It's different, but a good different."\nSmiley has fit in well for the Hoosiers, starting out at the No. 6 singles position his freshman year. He has climbed to the No. 4 singles position. In spring action, Smiley stands at 14-8 in individual competition. He attributes his improvement to Hydinger.\n"He's helped me to realize my strengths and weaknesses," Smiley said. "My volleys have gotten so much better, and my whole thought process has improved. He's really helped me with my concentration."\nHydinger said he hopes Smiley's climb will continue. \n"He's a well-rounded athlete with a well-rounded game," Hydinger said. "He's got a big serve, strong volleys and strong ground strokes. He's moved a couple spots since he came in, and we'll be looking for him to move a couple spots for next year."\nOutside of his individual play, Smiley and partner Ricardo Jordan have made a dynamic duo at the No. 1 doubles position for the Hoosiers. Jordan, a senior, said Smiley's play and attitude make the duo a good combination.\n "He's a great partner," Jordan said. "He's got a powerful serve and a powerful return. He's a hard worker on the court, and he is really good to have around because of his relaxed personality."\n Smiley and Jordan have racked up a 12-5 record this season. The duo barely fell to Kansas' top doubles tandem -- which was ranked 43rd in the nation -- 8-6, Feb. 10.\nCome tournament time, Smiley said he hopes there will be no close losses.\n"Ricardo and I are hoping to make the NCAA tournament, and I think we have a chance to win it," Smiley said. "We've played some tough competition and done well. If we can improve a few things, we could be contenders"