Junior Held finds his niche on team, defines teamwork on court

Junior Zach Held started his collegiate career at Michigan after playing prep tennis in Indianapolis at North Central High School. After one season as a Wolverine, he followed in the footsteps of his two older brothers and decided to attend IU.\nHeld's two older brothers, David and Andrew, both played four years of tennis at IU, so it was a natural decision for him. David Held played for IU from 1990-1993 and Andrew Held played from 1995-1998. \nHeld, a chemistry major, said his older brothers have influenced him since he was young. He said he always grew up loving IU and would always come to their matches. In addition, Held said he loved the facilities at IU.\nHeld said he believes it was a tremendous opportunity to transfer from Michigan. \n"I knew I would be happy at both schools," he said. \nHeld said he had friends at both schools and he liked both universities. It ultimately came down to proximity to home and the fact that his two brothers played tennis for IU. \nCoach Ken Hydinger, who also coached Held's two older brothers, said Held has contributed a lot. \n"He comes to work everyday, and he's ready to lead the charge," Hydinger said. "Indiana is home." \n Held has a 30-28 career singles record, including a 3-3 spring mark this season. \n Last year, Held compiled a 16-14 singles record playing mostly at No. 5. \n Overall, Held has a better collegiate winning percentage at doubles than singles. He is 27-21 in career doubles versus 30-28 in career singles.\n Held said he feels more comfortable playing doubles because there's less pressure. \n "It's easier when you have a partner backing you up," Held said. \n Senior Milan Rakvica said he enjoys playing with Held. Rakvica and Held have been playing at No. 1 and No. 2 doubles this season. Rakvica said Held's always pumped up, and thinks they play great together. \n"He's a big fighter," Rakvica said. "He has a huge heart." \nThis huge heart has landed Held a leadership role on this team, especially since they have suffered more than their share of injuries this spring. Held has had a calf injury, but it's healing. \nHydinger said he is glad Held is at IU.\n"This is the place for him," Hydinger said.