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Hayley Carter needed a break.

The former University of North Carolina star was physically, mentally and emotionally worn down.

She had just graduated from college, was dealing with nagging injuries and was still grieving the death of her father.

Hayley Carter Was An Oklahoma State Assistant In 2017-18
© OSU Athletics

“I have played tennis since I was 6 years old and I have never been burnt out before. But I was really 100 percent at that point last year,” Carter said. “I was at a stage where I didn’t feel like I even wanted to go and play.”

Rather than traveling for tournaments, Carter decided to take a job as an assistant coach for the Oklahoma State women. She spent this past season seeing the game from a different perspective, and the experience renewed her spirit.

The seven-time ITA All-American realized she had unfinished business as a player and is returning to the court to pursue a professional career.

“I just needed time to refind the love for the game, and I didn’t want to leave my tennis life with any regrets,” Carter said. “I felt like if I didn’t give it a full chance and a full opportunity on the tour I would have regrets in my tennis career.”