Featured Senior: Gene Perle-Jones

What was your most memorable moment throughout your career at Willamette?

The most memorable thing of my Willamette career was in junior year when we were at home against Pacific on senior day. I played a two-hour, three-set match, everyone finished before me and were lined up all around the court cheering.

Describe your feelings when you found out the season was canceled

It didn't seem real, like could this actually be happening? Then sadness and confusion I'd catch myself thinking "Got to be ready. We're going to Tacoma this weekend," and then having to stop and tell myself that wasn't happening. 

How have you been handling life in quarantine? Are you home or on campus? What's it like learning online and not having practice?

I'm living in a house near campus with my friends. After we wake up, almost every day I work in the yard, and then I work on homework and watch TV all the time. 

What has your experience as a Bearcat taught you?

It has definitely taught me about leading a team and that you should appreciate every moment you have doing something you love. 

If you could leave one piece of advice for future Bearcats, what would it be?

Work as hard as you can now because once you decide you want to you will wish you started earlier. 

What are your future plans following graduation?

I'm not sure yet.

From Gene's teammates

What was your most memorable moment of the selected senior?

Jordan Megiveron: Team huddles that rallied us before matches

Kai Kumra: The hype up huddles he orchestrated before matches.

How has Gene impacted you in your sport or in life?

Jordan Megiveron: Has been a very good influence and leader.

Kai Kumra: He made me realize how much hard work and dedication affects not only yourself, but the people around you.

What makes Gene special?

Kai Kumra: Everything. He's truly one of a kind, and irreplaceable. He perfectly illustrated what hard work looks like in the classroom and on the court. Also, he took the time of day to make sure everyone on the team was healthy and doing well.