When you think of a GRC program with pressure to withhold to their standard of greatness, many people automatically think of basketball.
However, with three back-to-back region titles for the girls and two back-to-back runner-up region titles for the boys, GRC’s tennis team has shown greatness within the program.
With the season kicking off, the team is led by head coach Travis True and assistant coach Rebecca Prater. These coaches have high expectations for the team due to the history of the program.
“I would love to see our seniors really shine this year by winning region championships individually and as a team,” said Prater.
Last year, GRC’s boys tennis team finished second in the region while the girls team finished in the top eight in the state competition. This performance comes from the coaches and their high standards for each team member.
Not only are the standards high for the standard of tennis being played, but the coaching staff has a high standard of how players should act while representing the team and GRC as a whole.
“I want to see our players more mature on the tennis court and not get as frustrated when we miss,” said True. “This mentally will not only improve our play but will help in all areas of life.”
While the emotions in tennis sound overbearing, the good emotions in the sport are clear within the team’s bond. Over the years as the current seniors have been together, many friendships have been made.
“I’m excited to be playing with my best friends,” said senior Daniel Kubican. “My goal for the season is to enjoy it all and make it to state.”
Friendships have been the backbone to a major part of the tennis team’s success.
Seniors Cassi Lowe and Madelyn Settles have won region for doubles three times in the past three years. Part of this is a result of their bond.
“Cassi and I know each other so well and that carries into our doubles play,” said Settles. “Knowing each other for so long helps us to anticipate what is going to happen and allows us to be able to read each other’s moods better.”
While the goal is to win region and go to state for both teams, the wins provide more than just a title.
“My favorite memory from the past couple years is the region tournament when the team is all together and having fun,” said senior Hayden Cockrell.
The goals of winning are in the whole team’s mind, but the coaches have bigger goals for the program as a whole. With the large number of seniors and older players, the coaches have focused on building the younger players up due to them being the future of the program.
“For our younger and new players, my hope is they gain a greater love and appreciation for tennis and enjoy the journey this year,” said Prater.
The love for the sport comes from practice, but it also comes from interacting with teammates and becoming friends with one another.
“The senior guys give me pointers and tips during practice that have really improved my game,” said sophomore Scotty Mitchell. “I’m excited to see how this year’s team bonds and becomes a family like I have seen with past teams.”
The impact seniors have on underclassmen is visible throughout the current team and their memories made with past senior classes.
“The class of ‘22 seniors always knew how to have a good time,” said senior Sydney Ely. “On our way to the region championship, they would blast Bad Blood by Taylor Swift on the bus and everyone would sing their hearts out.”
The team holds memories that are worth a million words. No matter the outcome of the upcoming season, the coaches want players to look at the bigger picture of what they are a part of.
“I want the players to be thinking about self respect,” said True. “I want the players, win or lose, to hold their heads high and appreciate their progress and the improvements they have made.”
