The number 32 might look simple on paper, but for one senior tennis player, it represents years of growth, resilience, and transformation.
Hippolyte De Preville is a senior majoring in marketing and entrepreneurship, he didn’t arrive at college chasing records or recognition. When he first stepped onto the court as a freshman, his mindset was straightforward.
“I just played the way I wanted, tried my hardest, and tried to be the best teammate I could.” De Preville said.
Tennis had always been an individual sport in his life, so joining a college program introduced something entirely new, a team dynamic that would ultimately shape not only his game but also who he became.
Now, with 32 career singles wins behind him, he sees the milestone not as the goal, but as a reflection of consistency and dedication.
“It’s always nice to have awards, but it’s definitely not something I’m playing for. It just shows that I’ve been pretty consistent over the four years,” he said.
To him, the record is simply evidence of showing up every day and putting in the work.
His journey wasn’t just about skill, though. One of the biggest factors in his success was something less visible: staying healthy.
During his first two years, he avoided major injuries, which helped him build momentum. Later, when minor setbacks came, he learned how important it was to take care of his body.
“Trying to take care of your body as much as you can, that’s the first thing,” he said.
But more than anything, he credits the people around him.
When he first joined the team, the culture wasn’t what it is today. There were divisions and a lack of unity. Over time, however, that changed as new players came in and helped reshape the environment.
“Being surrounded by people that are on the same page, that have the same passion, that’s something anyone would be looking for,” De Preville said.
That shift made a major difference in his performance.
“I felt like I was way more confident on the court. My level got way better and I improved a lot,” he explained.
Trust and connection with his teammates allowed him to play more freely and confidently.
That confidence also shows in how he approaches matches. Without the ability to warm up against opponents beforehand, he has learned to adapt quickly.
“Most of the time I just play my game. At the beginning of the match, I analyze how they play and change things if it doesn’t work,” he said
He pays close attention to movement and weaknesses, knowing that strategy can make all the difference.
As the years went on, his biggest transformation wasn’t physical; it was mental.That growth came with maturity.
“Maturity in tennis is about making good choices on and off the court,” he explained.
From shot selection to mindset, he’s developed a deeper understanding of the game.
Leadership became another defining part of his journey.
“I’ve always wanted to be a leader on this team,” he said.
From day one, he aimed to be someone others could rely on.
“I wanted to be someone that younger players could look at, trust, and come talk to, I didn’t want to be like some of the older guys when I got here,” De Preville said. “I wanted to be better for the team.”
Off the court, his support system played a huge role in his success. His girlfriend, who is also on the tennis team, has been a constant source of encouragement.
“We share everything; wins, losses, injuries, everything. No matter what, she’s always supporting me,” he said.
He also credits his coaches for believing in him from the beginning.
“They always knew my potential on the court and as a leader,” he said.
Their ability to recruit the right players and build a strong culture helped transform the program.
“It’s not just about knowing tennis, it’s about creating a great team,” he added.
As his college career comes to an end, he isn’t focused on the record books. Instead, he’s thinking about the legacy he’ll leave behind.
“Keeping that culture is the most important thing for me,” he said.
He’s proud of how far the team has come and hopes it continues after he and the other seniors leave.
“We all hope this team’s culture stays the same as long as possible.”
The 32 wins will always be a symbol of his consistency and effort. But even he knows that’s not the most important part.
“This award is great, and I’m very grateful,” he said. “But, my experience over these four years goes way above these records.”
