Catching Up with James Hardy in U.S. College Tennis
Back in 2025, we proudly announced our sponsorship of Perth tennis talent James Hardy as he set off on an exciting new chapter, moving to the United States to play college tennis and study at Converse University in South Carolina.
After settling into life in the U.S. since August 2025, James stopped by the Funky Monkey Bars showroom while home on a break. We caught up to chat about his transition, what he’s learned so far, and how college tennis compares to life back home.
Q&A with James Hardy
You’ve been in the U.S. since August 2025, how has the transition been overall?
Yes, being in the U.S. has been an excellent experience and has also a big transition. The experience has forced me to become more mature and independent. In terms of the tennis, the training is more intense and the college matches are more competitive than home. I feel I have transitioned well, and I am ready to go back into our regular season this spring.
What surprised you most about college tennis in the U.S.?
The most surprising part about college tennis is the competitive environment and atmosphere. Every match you play, you must play your best tennis for even a chance to win, there are no ‘easy’ matches. The match atmosphere is loud and intense, unlike how tennis is played anywhere else.
How does training in the U.S. compare to what you were used to in Perth?
The volume of training is the biggest difference. By living on campus where everything is a walk away, it makes training 2-3 times a day a lot easier. Having a specific tennis strength coach has also been great for improvement.
[Pictured: James Hardy on the court]
What’s been your most memorable moment so far?
In only one semester I have made many great memories, however my most memorable moment was when I was playing the last match of the day to decide the tie. Playing in front of my whole team in a such a high pressure situation was a great experience. Even though I lost the match, I learnt a lot from it and hope to have a different outcome when the next opportunity arises.
What are your goals for the rest of your first year at Converse University?
In the Spring, my personal goals are to have a winning singles and doubles record, be a constant starter on the team, and to win some long, close matches to win the tie for the team. As a team, the big goal is to win our conference and make it to nationals. On top of this I also need to stay on top of my academics.
[Pictured: James Hardy on the court]
Any advice for young Aussie athletes dreaming of U.S. college sport?
For anyone considering going to the US for college athletics, my advice is to just give it a go. You only get this opportunity once in your life so you may as well give it a chance. Coming from Australia it is a long way from home, however I have thoroughly enjoyed my first semester of college and met so many great people from all over the world. It is an excellent opportunity to learn and grow while playing the sport you love and getting a degree at the same time.
[Pictured: James Hardy in the Funky Monkey Bar showroom]
James’s journey is a perfect example of what can happen when talent, hard work, and opportunity come together. We’re incredibly proud to continue supporting him as he represents Australia on the international stage and takes on college tennis in the U.S.
We’ll be cheering you on every step of the way, James keep smashing it! 🇦🇺❤️