Hugo Kezen | Pfeiffer University

From Brazil to College TennisHow Hugo Kezen built his path at Pfeiffer UniversityIn this episode of the SMART Tennis™ Podcast, we sit down with Hugo Kezen to explore what it really takes to go from international tennis to competing at the college level in the United States.From growing up in Rio de Janeiro to building a new life in North Carolina… Hugo shares the real challenges, adjustments, and opportunities that come with the journey.If you're a player or parent trying to understand the college pathway… this is a conversation you’ll want to hear.• How Hugo got started in tennis and the influence of his athletic background• The key differences between training in Brazil vs the US• What the recruiting process actually looks like for international players• How visas, agents, and logistics work behind the scenes• Adjusting to a new culture, environment, and expectations• What college tennis team culture is really like• The role of mindset, resilience, and self belief in long term success• What young players should focus on if they want to play in college00:00 — Introduction & overview00:48 — Early tennis in Brazil02:48 — Transition from soccer05:46 — Growing up in a football culture07:06 — Adapting to US training10:13 — Recruitment journey13:30 — Visa process15:04 — Cultural adaptation20:03 — First impressions in the US26:25 — Starting college life28:51 — Coaching style & team culture33:02 — Team diversity35:59 — Season highlights39:39 — College tennis environment43:38 — Tournament experiences45:46 — Mental preparation46:56 — Advice for players48:02 — Closing thoughtsLearn more about SMART Tennis™👉 https://tennistimeacademies.com/ Make a Living. Make a Difference. (Coaching Opportunities)👉 https://tennistimeacademies.com/make-a-living-make-a-difference/SMART Tennis Makes SMART Kids (Book)👉 https://store.tennistimeacademies.com/SMART_Tennis_Book_on_AmazonApply to be on the podcast👉 https://podcast.tennistimeacademies.com/apply-to-be-on-the-podcastConnect with Hugo on Instagram👉 https://www.instagram.com/kezen_hugo/