McKinley the Athlete

McKinley puts his body on the line during a match, displaying his hustle and competitive nature.

Upon arrival at Trinity, McKinley immediately began his incredible athletic career. His hard work and determination for greatness led to a style of play that was both exciting, and successful. Ex-head Wimbledon referee and tennis professional Alan Mills competed in tournaments at the same time McKinley was playing. Mills recalled McKinley as a “fierce competitor, fast about the court bouncing around everywhere because he was so small.” In fact, his 5 foot, 8 inch, 160-pound stature was not common amongst tennis players at the highest level, but McKinley’s talent came naturally and his heart was never questioned. A Trinitonian article from April 23, 1962 reads, “He refuses to lose. He literally hurls himself at the ball because he can’t stand seeing it get by him.” A picture describing this can be seen above. This competitive attitude is what teammate Butch Newman recalled in a match that they played against each other. At an intermission in the match, Newman led McKinley two sets to one. During the intermission, McKinley spoke with Newman and said “you’ll never be anything if you don’t start hitting the ball. Stop playing like a girl,” as Newman recalled. “McKinley went on to win the match,” Newman said with a smile on his face. However, Newman also mentioned that as a teammate, there were few better. McKinley would always give 110% and push his teammates to improve, always keeping practice “agitated,” in a good way.