Patrick Levis (BC)

Wheelchair Athlete

INFO
Birthdate	April 11 1975
Birth place	Ottawa, Ontario
Residence	Victoria, BC
Height	6’0" (185 cm)
Plays	Left-handed

Personal
What is your earliest tennis memory?	I remember playing tennis when I was a teen, but hated it because I would always hit the ball over the fence. Fast-forward to 3 decades later when I found myself with a mobility impairment and introduced to wheelchair tennis in July 2019 during a Have-A-Go day with the BC Wheelchair Sports Association. I remember actually enjoying the challenge of pushing to get to the ball and trying to keep the ball inside the court.
How, where, and when did you start playing?	Due to rehab, moving and the COVID pandemic, I wasn’t able to continue wheelchair tennis until March 2021. I started playing at the Langford Tennis Club in Colwood BC with some older aged gentlemen.
What made you decide to choose tennis?	Having tried numerous adaptive sports, I chose wheelchair tennis for various reasons. First of all, it is fun. Then for the challenge as it requires physical and mental strength, technique and tactics. Also, because the sport is easy to practice as courts are mostly accessible and available. Compared to other sports, thanks to the organization that support wheelchair tennis, there are plenty of opportunities to train, compete and meet other players.
Your biggest inspiration and why?	Terry Fox for his courage, determination and selflessness.
Favourite sport other than tennis?	I grew up playing baseball and soccer, so I enjoy watching both sports.
Favourite sport other than tennis?	Sled hockey for the high paced gamed, and the strength, agility and technique required.
How has your family impacted your tennis career?	Encouraging me to follow my passion, regardless of my age and ability as they see my excitement and joy it brings to me.
Favourite sports team?	Although the Montreal Canadiens have been my lifelong team, the Vancouver Canucks are starting to replace them.
Favourite athlete?	Past: Guy Lafleur, Present: Roger Federer
Favourite TV show?	Family Ties
Favourite dish?	Boeuf Bourguignon
Which actor/actress would play you in a movie?	Tom Cruise (Top Gun)
Super power you wish you could have?	Ability to heal
What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?	I wanted to be an astronaut.
Describe yourself in 3 words?	Strong, outgoing, resourceful
If you weren’t playing tennis, what would you be doing?	Wheelchair pickleball
Other than tennis, what are you most passionate about?	Woodworking