Every year, Middle States selects a handful of junior tennis players (one boy and one girl from each age group) to receive the Sportsmanship Award. This award is selected by the Junior Competition Department, who receive recommendations from various people who interact with these juniors throughout the course of the year, such as coaches and tournament directors.

For 2015, Matthew Michibata (Princeton Junction, N.J.) was the recipient of the Sportsmanship Award in the Boys’ 16s age division.

“It is a great honor to get recognized for sportsmanship,” Michibata said. “My parents taught me to have integrity on and off the court and I’m happy to get this award for them.”

More about Matthew:

When he started playing tennis: 11 years old

Current involvement: High school tennis, USTA Tournaments

Favorite player: Roger Federer

Favorite food: Sushi

Pre-match ritual: Eat homemade pasta, stretch and visualize

Most interesting thing in bag: Extensive medical kit

Best tennis memory: “Playing in the Boys’ 14s Zonals. It was a great experience playing kids from other sections and fun spending time and getting to know the players from Middle States.”

Why he loves to play: “I love to play tennis because it is a really fun way to release stress. I like challenging myself to improve and adding new aspects to my game. I also get to spend time with my tennis friends at tournaments.”

Do you know a junior player that deserves recognition? Email NetPLAY@ms.usta.com.