The tennis season began with high hopes and determined minds. After a summer of intense conditioning, the team returned to the court, ready to push themselves beyond last year’s achievements. With a mix of seasoned veterans and fresh faces, the team, poised for success, pushes ahead, though the road ahead promises to be anything but easy.
Coach Tarwater and Coach Watson, known for their tough-love approach, laid out the team’s objectives: work together, have fun and make friends along the way.
The beginning of the season was a learning experience, where everyone saw what they could improve on and formed connections with their teammates.
“Being able to play with the upperclassmen has made me the player I am today,” freshman Ryland Neeley said. “They are really supportive and push me to be better.”
The middle of the season brought some tension, as everyone strive for perfection, competing and giving their all. It was a time for players to set both long-term and short-term goals.
“My short-term goals are to perform well at every tennis tournament I’m offered,” junior Griffin White said. “[My long term goals are] to make it past district and go to regionals.”
Towards the end of the season, more connections were made, and players began to understand the deeper purpose of why they were on the court. Bonds with upperclassmen even extended to players on opposing teams.
“People like Griffin and Bramlet are on varsity,” sophomore Gavin Osborne said. “They help us guys on JV by giving us tips.”
Throughout the season, many connections were formed, with upperclassmen befriending underclassmen and JV players bonding with varsity. Goals were set to build a stronger team and reinforce personal responsibility, allowing the team to be consistent and confident during their matches.
“I love cheering on my teammates [and] making memories,” Neeley said. “Putting in all the work with my brothers by my side is one of my favorite parts about high school tennis.
