MEET LIZL
I grew up in South Africa at the southern tip of the African continent. Its dry, sunny weather lends itself to being outdoors most of the time. Being flanked by the Atlantic Ocean on the west and the warm Indian Ocean on the East gives the country its spectacular range in biodiversity.
One of my earliest memories was watching my dad compete in the Comrades ultra-marathon, a grueling 56 mile run. Growing up with these athletes who embody camaraderie, selflessness, dedication and perseverance left an impression on me and set in motion my love for the art of preparation followed by performance.
I started playing tennis at an early age and attained a high national junior ranking. When my family moved to the United States I trained at Van Der Meer Tennis Academy and then accepted an offer to play tennis for Indiana University. My coach, Lin Loring, taught me so much and I admired his dedication to his team.
Later I studied physical therapy at the Medical University of South Carolina, where I met my husband. God blessed us with four lively children. Being a parent carries great responsibility but it is the best job I can think of. While our children were young I enjoyed running and competing in local 5 k, 10 k and some half-marathons. Running is an incredible sport because it is so accessible. And for a busy mind, it offers time for meditation and prayer.
In 2016 I started playing tennis competitively again. The Charleston tennis community is strong, supportive and competitive.
In October 2017 I won my first gold ball in singles at the National Clay Court tournament in Naples, Florida.
In October 2019 I won my first gold ball in doubles at the National Clay Court tournament with Tabatha Butler in Palm Beach, FL.
In 2020 I won my first gold ball in mixed doubles with Ben Cook at the National Clay Court tournament in Seabrook, SC.
In 2019 and 2020 I received an invitation to represent the United States in the World Cup Team tournament.
In 2021 I received the USTA Southern Player of the Year award.
Probably my proudest win was coaching the Lucy Beckham High 2020 women’s tennis team and bringing home the AAAA state title in our very first year.
I enjoy competing and try to set a good example for my children as they compete in their activities. Training followed by competition covers all of life’s lessons. What a safe and wonderful way to learn and prepare for life!
“You don’t have to be a professional athlete or an Olympic Champion to be a successful athlete. Nor do you have to have a room full of medals, win a tournament, or make the front page of the sports section. Examples of successful athletes include an eleven-year-old figure skater who has not yet won a competition, but is setting goals towards winning, a high school golfer with a zero handicap, a tennis player who regains the ability to hit out on the ball during competition and a middle-aged runner whose goal is to complete her first marathon.
What these athletes have in common is that their sport is important to them and they’re committed to being the best that they can be given their live circumstances. They set high, realistic goals for themselves and train and play hard. They are successful because they are pursuing their goals and enjoying their sport. Their sport participation enriches their lives and they believe that what they get back is worth what they put into their sport.”