The UC High Girls Tennis Team spikes the season and brings their expertise to the court with a promising team of dedicated players. This year’s group of girls are uniquely close and have a real passion for tennis.
They can be found on the school’s tennis courts after school for a gripping home game or a lively practice. “Each practice consists of cardio and footwork drills, training us to stay sharp,” said Senior Maria Lapikova.
The team values each player and creates a good atmosphere of friendship building as well as skill practice. Senior Captain Emilia Ghandour said, “We all went to the beach the other day and had a big ol’ potluck. It was great. Everyone brought a tasty dish and we got to soak up the sun.” Valuing team bonding has served them well, helping to bring confidence to the court.
Coach Justin Nyguen referenced the past tennis players graduating: “Going into this year, I knew it was going to be a building year. Since seven seniors left the team, I anticipated the team becoming a bit weaker, but getting to know the players’ skill level the team is still pretty strong and holds up with the inevitable drawback.”
Nyguen also talked about the goals for the year: “We are hoping for a positive win rate. Currently, the Division is in the upper middle section of the Eastern League, and with a few more solid wins we could make it further in CIFs than last year.”
One of the team’s star players, Ghandour has been playing tennis at UC High since her freshman year. She admires the relationships between the people on the team, noting that, “This year, unlike the previous ones, JV and varsity have been pretty connected. I think it has to do with the positive environment we’ve created and the all-around good vibes of the team.”
The mental game is a big part of tennis. “I have to remember every game is a learning experience. I can always pick up new things from each play and still work on what I could get better at without feeling regretful or beating myself up about it,” said Lapikova.
Explaining the pros and cons of singles play versus doubles play, Lapikova said, “In singles you have more control of the game, but it can be a slippery slope. When you start to mess up it can really get in your head.” In doubles, on the other hand, “There is a different type of pressure coming from your teammate to add onto the stress of the game. It can also be easier to stay present in the game, because you are more responsible when sharing the court with a teammate,” said Lapikova.
The team has some unique traditions to prepare for victory. “Each time we play a new game, we have to use new tennis balls, but we always go around smelling that fresh tennis ball scent, it’s almost like our good luck charm,” said Ghandour.
“The environment is what makes it so fun. From the competitive nature, to getting to know each other better, by hanging out at the beach or dining in restaurants, we have grown closer,” said Sophomore Naomi Shim.