DOB: 9/15/84
Hometown: Arlington, VA
Resides: Memphis, TN
Sponsor: Wilson
Racquet: Wilson K Factor
Right-handed
Motto: Grip it and rip it!
Childhood hero: Lance Armstrong
Favorite childhood pro: Cliff Swain
First Coach: Dad
Goals: Graduate December 2007 

It has been a long time since Memphis has had any bragging rights in the racquetball world, but U of M’s Travis Woodbury has his sights set on breaking into the top 16 by the end of this year. He is currently ranked 29 on the International Racquetball Tour (IRT) and I am predicting that he will meet and pass his goals before the end of the year. He has a deep love for the sport of racquetball.  Combine that with his a natural talent and you have the makings of a new Memphis Racquetball King.

Travis was literally on the court before he was born. His mom was winning tournaments while pregnant with him. His early years were spent behind the court glass "being a little brat" while his mom and dad played competitive racquetball. He gets his good looks from his dad and his backhand from his mom. But, the athletic gene pool stopped with Travis, his younger sister scored big with the creative genius genes. She's a full time student studying computer graphics at Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, NY. 

Travis' game developed under the direction of his dad and a little help from Dan Fowler (ranked 6 on the IRT). It was not long after turning 14 that Travis was able to beat his dad, an open player. He says he studied every book he could get his hands on and watched every video available. He gives  much credit to the club players at Crystal Gateway Sport & Health Club in Arlington for helping him to become the player he is today. 

His pro game is more powerful and polished than his junior years but he still uses the same intensity in his training program. He trains on average of four hours every day. His routine includes weights, speed and agility training. But, "sticking to the basics" is his on court philosophy. Put all that together and you'll get one of steadiest games I've seen in a while. Did I mention his picture perfect backhand that is as smooth as velvet?  But that is not what he claims is his biggest weapon. It would have to be his spectacular serve that has helped him to win numerous championships.

He considers one of his greatest accomplishments  to be his second place win in the 2002 IRF World Junior Tournament. He paired up with Brandon Shoemaker in 2003 to win the 18 Doubles World Junior Title.  He also won the 2003 Virginia State Title.  His winning record is long as well as impressive cruising from juniors to the pros in just a few short years.  

Travis understands the comprehensive role of being a true representative of his sport. He envisions positive changes that include expanding the sponsor base to a more diverse group, setting up clinics, especially junior clinics. He knows that there is a lot more to the sport than just the game. He thoughtfully represents himself; his sponsors and those who have helped him reach his goals.  With a maturity beyond his twenty-two years, he is more than ready to reach the top and in my book no one deserves it more.

It's not often that pros are willing to share their talent and energy with others, but Travis is willing and ready to do his part. He is anxious to see racquetball get back to its glory days.  I hope his dreams come true; it will benefit the whole racquetball community.  

Look for his upcoming clinics at WellworX Fitness Club. I am sure he'll cover the "basics".

See you on the court.  

Susan Brown

www.youtube.com Travis Woodbury