With the Naval Academy well known for its prestigious academics and successful athletic programs, junior Makailia Cheng has accomplished something that many can only dream about. Committing to the Navy’s tennis team, Cheng has worked tirelessly throughout her high school career, reaching out to coaches, attending invitational tournaments, and winning awards, further establishing her name.

For many consecutive years, Arcadia High School’s Girls Varsity Tennis team has dominated the Pacific League with outstanding records and awards. Coming in with an undefeated league record this fall season, Cheng has played a pivotal role in accomplishing such a great feat.

“I got into tennis when I was six years old. I started trying it out because I always tried to one-up my brother. Eventually, I got into it competitively when I was ten and started competing in tournaments. I fell in love with the sport because it has taught me so many life skills like quick thinking or how to solve your own problems on the court.”

Playing for over ten years now, Cheng has utilized tennis to develop skills not only on but off the court as well. Juggling academics on one hand and tennis on the other, not many can safely conclude they have mastered this like Cheng.

“Time management was a skill that I developed because managing tennis and school work can be really hectic. I created a schedule that worked for myself and my coaches. I would practice in the morning at six before school, which really opened my afternoons for homework and other extracurriculars.”

For the majority of her high school career, Cheng has spent numerous hours studying, practicing, and going through the recruitment process. Whether it is attending invite-only tournaments or studying for hours upon hours for her next test, everything filtered back to one goal: receiving an offer.

“The process is very strenuous during recruiting time. Especially during junior year, I had to be on top of everything. I really focused on my grades and tennis. I practiced for at least two hours every day and skipped many days of school just to go to tournaments. There were some days that I wanted to give up, but I think in the end it all paid off.”

As a result of such determination and time management, Cheng has committed to the United States Naval Academy, where she will continue her academic and athletic career after her senior year.

“When I committed to the Navy, I was honestly so relieved. It felt like this weight on my shoulders had been lifted, and I could finally relax a little. I have always wanted to play Division I tennis for a top school. It felt surreal when I committed.”

However, Cheng’s choice of school is slightly unique compared to other students. While many students in Southern California choose nearby UC’s, few are willing to choose the Naval Academy due to its strict schedule and strenuous tasks.

“I chose the Navy over Ivy’s and UC’s because I wanted to choose a challenging path for college. The Naval Academy also has unparalleled opportunities and limitless career options after college. The Navy just had the perfect package of everything with tennis and academics.I’m so excited for what is next to come at the Navy.“

Keeping in mind that Cheng is only a junior, it is very likely that her accomplishments and opportunities will only continue to multiply. She is someone to look out for next season and can expect to hear more news from.

Photo courtesy of Makaila Cheng