Paula Luque - Has been competing with the Men from the very beginning

Which league are you a member of?

I am a member of the Orlando Tennis League. After relocating to Orlando, Florida, I was eager to find a tennis community that reflected that same sense of purpose and passion. Joining the Tennis League Network in Orlando has been an experience that exceeded my expectations. Through this league, I’ve connected with inspiring players, shared competitive matches, and rediscovered the joy that comes from playing the game with intention.

How long have you participated in your league?

I have been playing in the league for approximately one year.

How did you first learn about it?

I first learned about the league through references from other players. I also play (and still currently play) in the USTA, and since I am very competitive and love playing tennis as much as possible, I knew that joining this league would give me exactly what I was looking for: more matches, more competition, and constant opportunities to play.

How often do you play?

I play very often. I participate in all seasons, and I usually play two to three times per week.

What do you like most about the league?

What I like most about the league is that I can always play tennis. There are many active players, the level is competitive, and that motivates me a lot. There are many strong players I can learn from, which helps me continuously improve my game. On top of that, it’s simply very fun.

Tell us about your most memorable match(es).

I’ve had many memorable matches, and honestly, almost all of them are memorable to me. I always try to give my best. Most of my matches are against men, which is obviously a challenge, but I still give everything I have to compete, fight for every point, and show my competitive spirit and love for the game.

Who are your favorite rivals in the league? Why?

I wouldn’t say I have favorite rivals. Everyone brings good tennis to the court. My biggest challenge and what I enjoy the most is playing against very high level players, whether I win or lose. Those matches push me, help me learn, and force me to demand more from myself every time I step on the court.

Do you have any other interesting comments about your experiences with the league?

My experience has been very positive and very fun. Honestly, there’s not much more to say you always have tennis. For tennis lovers, that’s everything. You will always find people to play with, make friends, compete, and enjoy the sport. There are so many positive aspects to this league.

What makes this league truly special is the balance it creates between competition and growth. Every match is an opportunity to learn to refine technique, develop strategy, and strengthen sportsmanship. Playing consistently has positively impacted my physical health, sharpened my focus, and reinforced the importance of staying active and engaged through sport.

Beyond the results and rankings, this league offers something deeper: a strong sense of community. It’s a space where passion, knowledge, and respect for the game come together naturally. Without a doubt, Tennis League Network has been the best tennis league I’ve found in Orlando, and I’m grateful to be part of a community that truly celebrates the love of tennis.

How did you get started playing tennis?

I started playing tennis more than 15–20 years ago, when I was in the Colombian Navy. That’s where I took my first steps in the sport. After that, tennis became more recreational, playing with friends, and then I started competing in women’s singles tournaments in Colombia, reaching a very good level. Later, I moved to Orlando, where I continued playing and competing, and I still do to this day. I hope to keep playing until I’m a grandmother.

Do you play to compete, or for fun?

I play for both, but if I’m being honest, probably more for competition. I am a very competitive person. That competitive spirit comes from my time in the Navy and from my entire life. I was a champion in the military pentathlon team of the Colombian Navy and was part of a high performance team representing Colombia for about 10 years. Competition is part of who I am.

What level player are you? (NTRP rating)

I am 4.0

What do you love about tennis? 

Tennis has shaped my life in ways that go far beyond the court. I began playing seriously many years ago while serving in the Colombian Navy, where discipline, consistency, and continuous learning were part of everyday life. During that time, tennis became more than a sport. It became a practice that strengthened both my mindset and my character.