DIII Week Athlete Spotlight- Taji Williams

MONTGOMERY,Ala.- Taking part in national DIII week, we will be spotlighting five different Huntingdon student-athletes in recognition of their committments both on and off of the field. The first athlete featured in 2024 is Taji Williams of the women's tennis team.

Williams, a native of Pensacola, Florida, is a Junior majoring in accounting. Coming from a local community college, Taji was in search of a college atmosphere that truly made her feel at home, and she was able to find that at Huntingdon, a DIII institution. "I like how DIII institutions prioritize academics and offer many opportunities, giving me the chance to receive a quality education while playing the sport I love," said Williams. "I also like the strong sense of community that exists at Huntingdon and in DIII schools in general. this has allowed me to create bonds and memories with people that will last a lifetime."

Since entering Huntingdon, Williams has found a renewed love for her sport, referencing that throughout her time as a JUCO athlete, she lost some of her enjoyment within tennis. "Before I transferred to Huntingdon, I solely was focused on the principal of winning when it came to my sport. Only thinking about winning the game made me put a lot of pressure and stress on myself", Williams shared.  "Looking back, I wish I had devoted my time into just having fun and not mentally punishing myself when I end up losing a game. I wish I had realized the true value of losing and turning my mistakes and errors into learning lessons so I could grow as a player".

Now as an upperclassmen, Williams has had the opportunity to reflect on her growth as a woman, both within athletics and in life, and stated that if she could go back in time and give "freshman year Taji" one piece of advice, it would be "I would tell myself that it is okay to ask for help and to accept support from others. Don't put too much pressure on yourself and stress about having to figure out everything now. Put your trust in God and everything will fall into place and work out."

 You can catch Williams and the Hawks tennis team on April 6th at home against Maryville at 2:00 PM CT.