Team Conditioning Systems:
Athlete Spotlight: Tina Anna VanDerMeiren

Friday, January 8, 1999

By Joanne Costantino
SJSports Staff Writer

Tina Anna VanDerMeiren of Mt. Holly is a Senior at Rancocas Valley Regional High School. Born in Phoenix, Arizona, this bubbly young lady splits her time and talents between playing basketball (forward/center), tennis, playing violin in the orchestra and singing.

At 5'11", Tina is confident with her height but feels that stores like Lady Foot Locker should be more sensitive to the athletic needs of "women of stature". Otherwise she is forced to buy her sports footwear in the men's departments. As Tina says, "What's up with THAT?!"

Mr. Ike Johnson is the person that Tina feels has influenced her the most in these past few years. He was her first tennis instructor and her number one fan. She credits him with instilling in her confidence and leadership qualities. Tina started playing tennis three years ago when she took lessons with a friend just to keep her company and has continued on with the Rancocas Valley tennis team to become Third Singles Varsity. She is Captain of the Burlington County Tennis Academy team which plays in USTA tournaments.

While sports and music keep her busy, Tina finds time to be active with community service as part of the Key Club, a volunteer group that sponsors small services, like holiday gift wrapping, and donates the proceeds to the community.

Potential college choices for next year are Rutgers New Brunswick or High Point University. Her plan is to pursue Sports Medicine/Physical Therapy because she feels this field gives her the opportunity to continue with athletics and help other people at the same time.