California Irvine Athletics

Greg Gamal
Year: Freshman
Height: 6-3
Hometown: Villa Park, Calif.
High School: Villa Park HS
Major: Undeclared
 
Greg Gamal is a local freshman from the Orange County area. Gamal was named to the 2025 OC Register All-County Second Team after leading Villa Park High School to their first CIF-Southern Section Final appearance in program history. Gamal was also part of the Spartans' undefeated North Hills League championship team as a senior.
 
How did you get started playing tennis?
I started when I was five. My grandpa took me to a public court. He liked watching other people play and wanted to see if I could ever learn to make contact with a ball and racket. From then on, I went to the court basically every single day until I was 18 and now I'm here at UCI playing for the team.
 
Did you play any other sports growing up?
I swam a little bit, but just to learn. It wasn't really my thing so I completely dove back into tennis and that's where I stayed.
 
Who has been your biggest inspiration?
It really was my grandpa. He's the one who kind of led me, took me to all my practices and matches, and was the one who motivated me. I really love that he was able to pass along his passion to me and now I carry that with me.
 
Did your grandpa play tennis?
He did not, he actually just loved watching, and I guess it's what drove him to want that for me.
 
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Redlands, California. That's where I learned to play. These courts were just straight up red; it was really hard to play, but really fun. Then I moved to Orange, California, when I was 12 and that's where I've been ever since.
 
Tell us a little bit about your recruiting process and why you chose UC Irvine.
I had some of the UC's as possibilities, but none of them felt as tight of a community as Irvine. After several tours, I realized UC Irvine was the place I wanted to be for the next four to five years, so that's where I committed, and I'm very happy.
 
What is your goal for your first season?
I want to get through school and get through all my classes. I'm excited to be part of this team environment; it's been really positive. I love this team so much. I'd love to play some matches if I can, but ultimately I want what's best for the team.
 
What has been your favorite thing about this UCI team so far?
The car rides, the laughing and talking. It's been really fun bonding with them. Before college, tennis is a very individual sport, so now I'm getting the team side of it, and I absolutely love it.
 
What is your career goal?
I'd love to be a lawyer, or in something law related.