Image from author.
Top: Theeran in tennis practice
Most sports do not typically combine strategy, teamwork, and athleticism quite like tennis. The sport might seem easy to play, but it actually requires a high level of skill and strategic thinking in order to excel. Washington High School has many rising stars, such as Cyrus Ahmad (who reached top twenty in the nation for boys 14’s singles, reached first place in NorCal in the boys 14’s for singles, and more), Theeran Sivakumar, Sarah Hamilton, and many more. In the last two years, Washington has won first place in the Mission Valley Athletic League for singles, secured second place in doubles, and won other significant tournaments.
In order to thrive as a tennis player at Washington High School, one must have a strong work ethic, commitment, and patience. Theeran Sivakumar, the captain of the boys tennis team, says, “Training in tennis is very intense. Ideally, the training involves conditioning which may include running, weights, agility movement warm ups, and more. It’s very tough because we don’t get a lot of breaks and have to have great stamina in order to keep up.”
Tennis is a sport that is demanding physically and mentally. The players have to be able to move quickly and execute game-winning shots in small windows of time. In fact, tennis games can last several hours, so conditioning your body is key in the sport. Tennis also requires focus and decision making. Theeran mentions the struggles of tennis players: “Tennis is a brutal sport and has made my mental health worse and better at times,” he says. However, he adds that, “The more I practiced and got better, the more my mental health improved.”
Washington High School’s tennis team stands out due to their commitment, teamwork, and sportsmanship. In addition, the team maintains a positive and supportive atmosphere by encouraging each other. Cyrus Ahmad says, “We always push each other to our limits in practices, which can be tough on us, but it helps everybody at the same time. If we are losing in a tournament, we support each other emotionally, which creates a positive atmosphere and motivates us to try even harder.” Their sheer will not only helps them on the court, but also instills valuable life skills.
Top: Cyrus playing a match
For those who play doubles, tennis is also a team game, which is why players must uplift one another. Not only is it important to support the team, but it’s also important to have good sportsmanship. Showing respect and promoting fair play upholds integrity and a positive atmosphere, which are valuable off the court. Cyrus was able to say from his personal experiences that “the most important qualities are respect and patience. These are valuable in several aspects of life. Just like changing up your game plan, according to your opponent’s moves, life throws unexpected curveballs and challenges. The ability to be patient and adapt make various situations easier to deal with.” These parallels between life and tennis, as described by Cyrus, emphasizes integrity and self growth.
In the world of tennis at Washington, it’s not just about winning games, but rather fostering teamwork, resilience, and dedication both on and off the court. The stories of rising stars like Theeran Sivakumar, Cyrus Ahmad, and many more indicate the work ethic that drives the whole team to succeed. As Cyrus elegantly points out, one’s character is defined by their ability to navigate around unexpected obstacles. Washington High School’s tennis team symbolizes that the qualities cultivated on the court can help boost one’s self growth. Currently, the girls’ tennis team has the MVALs (a league tournament) on Tuesday, October 31. The winners of the tournament will advance to the Team Banquet on November 4th. The girls’ tennis team has performed well, but sadly the season is coming to an end. However, boys tennis is starting in the spring. If you want to become a good tennis player and learn valuable life lessons as well, consider joining the tennis team at Washington!
Arun Sharma is currently a junior at Washington High School. He was born and raised in Fremont, California and this is his first year with The Hatchet. He’s interested in covering topics regarding economics, sports, art, and health. In his free time he loves to play video games, study chess, listen to music, cook with his parents, and spend time with friends and family. Arun intends on attending a university and majoring in something that is related to STEM.
Arun Sharma is currently a junior at Washington High School. He was born and raised in Fremont, California and this is his first year with The Hatchet. He’s interested in covering topics regarding economics, sports, art, and health. In his free time he loves to play video games, study chess, listen to music, cook with his parents, and spend time with friends and family. Arun intends on attending a university and majoring in something that is related to STEM.