Cambridge, MA and New Haven, CT - For most college-age siblings, reunions during the academic year are few and far between.
For Marysa and Greg Leya, however, getting together happens quite frequently and when they see each other, it's often competitive.
The Leyas, residents of Chicago, each serve as captain of their respective Tennis On Campus teams - Marysa at Yale University and Greg at Harvard University.
"We've both been playing tennis as long as we can remember," said Marysa, a senior biology major who will attend medical school after earning her degree from Yale. "Having grown up playing, we wanted to continue to stay involved in the game and Tennis On Campus was a perfect fit."
During the Tennis On Campus seasons, Greg and Marysa see each other on a near monthly basis at sectional tournaments or dual matches.
"It's a great opportunity for us to catch up," said Greg, a junior molecular and cellular biology major who also has aspirations of attending medical school.
One of the biggest thrills, the siblings agreed, is taking the opportunity to team up during some mixed-doubles matches.
"Whenever we can, we'll play in mixed-doubles matches together and even though the matches don't count, it's always fun to get to hit together," Marysa said. "It's the Leyas versus whoever, and it seems just like old times."
Both Leyas played competitive junior tournaments growing up and were members of their high school teams, so the chance to extend their competitive tennis careers was too enticing to pass up.
"Tennis On Campus has been an absolutely great experience," Greg said. "It provides an opportunity to compete, but in a setting that still allows time for work and studies. There's no shortage of talented players, and there are some members of our team who could give the varsity players a run for their money."
Although both the Harvard and Yale teams are comprised of individuals who dedicate countless hours to studying to ensure academic success, plenty of time is devoted to tennis.
"We typically practice three times a week during the season," Greg said. "There's also organized matches between teammates that are built around class schedules."
No matter what demands and time constraints their futures have in store, the Leyas plan to continue to play tennis for as long as they are able.
"Tennis has been such an important part of our lives for so long, so not playing would mean forgoing a sport we've enjoyed for years," Marysa said. "The sport has always been a great way to meet people and an excellent outlet for staying active. I'm sure that we'll stay involved as much as we can and one day we'll pass the game on to our children."