Jacobs Mulls Pros and Cons of Tennis

Watching Jieun Jacobs play tennis, it is not surprising to learn she is the top-ranked 14-year-old in Southern California.

But while a powerful serve and thunderous two-handed backhand have led the Hart High freshman to a 21-3 set record and eight consecutive 6-0 victories, Jacobs’ court dominance is not her most impressive attribute.

“She has a great attitude for a girl that age,” Indian Coach Steve Love said. “It’s hard to believe she’s a freshman.”

Jacobs may be only 14, but on and off the court she shows maturity well beyond her years.

She has set modest goals for herself, such as using tennis to attain a scholarship to an NCAA Division I school.

“It’s not wise to hop on the pro tour right out of high school,” she said. “It’s good to get an education. You see a lot of examples of players burned out of tennis at 18 and I don’t want to be like that.”

If she decides to turn pro after college, she says she’s not worried about being past her prime.

“Some people look at it like if you’re 22 then you’re too old,” she said. “But 20-25 is the prime. You’re in good shape and your game is good. That’s fine.”

Tendinitis in her left wrist hampered her in early matches this season, but as the injury has healed she has won 19 consecutive sets--12 by 6-0 scores.

So dominant has her on-court performance been that she recalls when a Burbank player celebrated winning five points during a set.

“I think that it’s better to try my hardest and beat them instead of toying around with them,” she said of mowing down opponents, sometimes in under 20 minutes. “There’s never an easy match. Staying focused is always the goal.”

Jacobs also maintains a rigorous practice schedule at Calabasas Tennis and Swim Center. She spends about 25 hours a week on the court, but she is quick to point out that tennis doesn’t control her.

“I’m not chained to a tennis court,” she said. “I still have a normal life. Sometimes I miss out on things, like if a friend is having a party and I can’t go because I have a tournament. But I still hang out with my friends and go shopping.”

“This is what I want to do. If someone wanted to be a dancer, they would practice dancing. And if I miss out on something and end up winning the tournament, then it’s worth it.”