12 April 2012 | Tennis Victoria

Although she only started playing tennis at eight years of age, Katerina Valos’s (Moonee Ponds) tennis development has come along in leaps and bounds in the last six years.

Valos recently finished third in the singles of the Optus 14s National Claycourt Championships, and won the doubles with Chloe Hule from South Australia.

“I just love playing,” said Valos. “I enjoy travelling and the group environment at training.”

Currently ranked No.5 in Australia and No.1 in Victoria for her birth year, Katerina is motivated by her goal of becoming a top 10 player in the world.

Her favourite player on the tour is current world No.1, Victoria Azarenka.

“I see a lot of myself in her. I like her aggressive game style and her attitude and I try to model myself on her,” said Valos.

“I hope to be a professional, make the top 10 in the world and get the most out of playing tennis.”

Valos is a member of Tennis Australia’s National Academy – Melbourne where she is coached by Chris Mahony. She also swims and runs cross country to help her tennis development.

“I think it’s a development year this year to help grow my game. I was injured for the majority of last year.”

Katerina describes her game style as an aggressive baseliner; her favourite shot is the inside-out forehand and favourite surface is clay.

“Katerina works hard on all facets of her game and is really starting to get the rewards,” said Emily Rea, Tennis Victoria’s Player Development Coordinator.

“She is working on developing her ITF junior ranking and improving her physicality on the court.”

In order to focus on her tennis, Katerina started distance education this year. In her spare time she likes to listen to music, spend time with friends and walk her dog.