Three years ago, Mats Persson came to NIU and like all freshmen, he had to adjust to a new life away from home.

But for Persson, the adjustment was a big one because his home was in Sweden. Persson had to adjust to a new culture and lifestyle as well as try to concentrate on schoolwork and tennis for the NIU men’s tennis team.

“It was hard in the beginning to understand (the lifestyle) here,” Persson said. “I learned English in school in Sweden, so I understood the (people) pretty well.”

But, why did Persson choose NIU?

“My sister went to Northwestern, and she told me about (NIU),” Persson said. “The combination of academics and tennis was why I came here.”

Three years later, Persson has established himself as NIU’s top singles tennis player and is working on a degree in economics.

In fact, there is a good chance that Persson will graduate early (in August), no small feat for any athlete that must take the time to continuously work themselves to become a better player. But for Persson, academics are just as important as tennis.

“He’s (Persson) really serious on his studies,” NIU tennis coach Chuck Merzbacher said. “There’s a good chance that he’ll graduate in August and start his (M.B.A.). He’s quite a stud when it comes to studying.”

Persson has also been a stud on the tennis court where he is NIU’s No. 1 singles player.

“He’s (Persson) always played No. 1 or 2 for us since he got here,” Merzbecher said. “(His personality) remains the same when he goes on the court.

“Mats is quiet and just goes about his business and does the job on the court. He’s really been a pleasure to have on the team,” Merzbacher added.

Persson plays by just “going about his business” for a reason. This is part of his strategy to frustrate his opponent and have them make the costly error that may decide the match.

“I play conservative and wait for my opponent to make mistakes,” Persson said. “When my opponent loses patience is when I know that I (will win). I will be aggressive and take my chances when I get them, and my strength is on the baseline.”

Persson’s strength also comes from his interests and athletic abilities in other sports besides tennis.

“I played hockey and soccer in Sweden, and I enjoy basketball and football here (in the U.S.),” Persson said.

Persson says he misses his family who remained in Sweden but has also found a quick solution to that problem.

“My sister works for American Airlines, so that helps,” said Persson. “I get to travel home about three times a year.”

On Friday, Persson and the Huskies will be traveling to Green Bay for the Mid-Continent Conference Tournament. It will be another opportunity for Persson and his team to go about their business … and win.