Driven by team spirit and two bananas before every match - Suzie Heid
Suzie Heid’s journey into the world of tennis started the way many good stories do with a friend’s invitation to play at TCSP. What began as a once-a-week social activity quickly grew into a deeper passion for the game. Her true passion began when she decided to join a USTA team and as Suzie recalls, she has been “hooked on competition ever since.”
Since then, Suzie has been a consistent presence at TCSP, competing on multiple teams and forming bonds through tennis that extend well beyond the court. “I’ve been lucky to be on some amazing teams with some amazing women,” she says.
Suzie grew up in Mill Creek and left home at the age of 19 to serve in the Air Force. After years away, she eventually returned to the Pacific Northwest and settled into retirement here. When she is not at TCSP, she’s happiest at home with her husband and their two golden retrievers. “If I am not playing tennis, that’s where I’ll always be,” she shares.
Suzie’s competitive edge lies in a small ritual that keeps her grounded before competition: two bananas, 30 minutes before every match. “I never stray from that,” she says.
It’s no surprise that Suzie gravitated towards competition; it runs deep in the family. Her husband and son are both rowers, and her son — a two-time national champion with the University of Washington — is now training for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. “I love that I can be a part of our family’s competitive spirit with tennis,” she says. “It helps me stay physically fit and active with them.”
And if life ever gave her a little more time in the day? “I’d spend it rubbing my dogs’ bellies.”
You may have met Suzie over the previous tournament weekend if you played Doubles in our Club Championships. She kindly volunteered to assist in running the hospitality desk and most likely helped you get checked in and gave you some good luck on the way in!
