Running up and down the court, swinging hard, and using their strength to push through the long, tiring practices. The bright court lights shine down on the Brahmas, making all the exhaustion worthwhile.
With tennis season just around the corner, a lot of work is being put in to ensure this season is a success. Late-night practices with a new coach can be challenging, but each athlete is thrilled to prepare for future matches and tournaments. Each athlete is trying to prove themselves the best they can and help one another to make the whole team better, ultimately.
“This tennis season, I practice at least four days a week. I’ve been doing lessons basically every week of the year the past three years, but my goal is just work the best I can, and my partner is Kaisly Bludau. Our goal is to make it to state this year, and it’s a very achievable goal,” senior Aubrey Freytag said.
Putting in hard work can bring big rewards for the Brahmas.
“One thing that I’m looking forward to this season is all the tournaments. Seeing hard work pay off always makes me feel accomplished,” Kennedy Walpole said.
Brahma tennis has a new coach this season. Case Thigpen has great plans for his tennis athletes this year.
“With it being my last tennis season, I’m definitely looking forward to just seeing the outcome of a new coach and a new year,” senior Payton Mathison said.
With new things come the opportunity to set new goals. Goals push athletes to give it their all.
“I want to make it to regionals this year. I wasn’t able to make it last year, and I feel like I’m good enough to, I’ve just gotta put it all together at the right time,” sophomore Liam Ferguson said.
Others, like Payton Mathison, have goals set for their whole team that are sure to be achieved.
A goal for us would be district champs. That would be something really nice to achieve because I don’t think it’s ever been done before,” Mathison said.
Sometimes the stress of being an athlete can get to a player’s heart. Liam has some advice on how to prepare yourself.
“Just have fun with it, don’t take it too seriously. Show up every day and be ready to work,” Ferguson said.
Being with a team is what makes playing sports worthwhile. It creates bonds and opportunities to make new friends.
“My favorite part of playing tennis is getting to play with my teammates. I always enjoy playing with them, and we always make practice extremely fun,” Walpole said.
