By Ryan Massad, Contributing Writer
School: Shrewsbury High School
Sport: Tennis
Coach: Josh Handy
Class: 2019
What are your earliest tennis-related memories?
“My earliest tennis memory was when I won my first level six tournament in USTA [United States Tennis Association], and I managed to reach the top 20 in USTA in the under 12 division. Personally, I was confident in my skills, so I was not too worried. It was a fun experience that I was able to have, and it felt good.”
What is it like working with Coach Handy now that you’re at SHS?
“He is so fun to play for. He is a very laidback coach, but is helpful in correcting technique and form. It’s an honor to represent him and Shrewsbury.”
What do you consider to be the best part of your game?
“In my opinion, the best part of my game is my mobility on the court. I am a pretty fast kid, so I am able to have really good court coverage, and reach balls many people don’t think I could’ve.”
What has been the single most special match in your tennis career?
“The single most special match was last year during the district tournament. I faced a kid who was top-ranked, and was set to play college tennis the following year. It was special because I pulled off the victory rather easily.”
What do you hope to accomplish during your time at Shrewsbury High?
“Before my high school career is up, I hope to win the district championship for both the team and individually. It would be a great feeling to win something like that after all my hard work.”
What is your favorite class in school, and why?
“My favorite subject in school is math, because it comes naturally to me, and I have won several awards in it. It is always fun to tackle a challenging math word problem.”
Who is your favorite professional tennis player?
“My favorite pro is definitely Roger Federer.”
What is your favorite type of music, and artist in that genre?
“My favorite type of music is radio pop. However, my favorite artist is Canadian Christian rock group Thousand Foot Krutch.”
Have you begun considering colleges, and would you like to play tennis at that level?
“I have started; however, that is not my priority at the moment. No matter what college I go to, I definitely want to play tennis at that level, and I believe I can do so with hard work and perseverance.”