After finishing third in the division, the CHS boys’ tennis team wrapped up the season 12-6. For the players on the team, this experience reflects not just competition, but the influence of coaching and the personal joys that brought them to the team.
“I want them to carry a sense of ownership into their real lives. When things go wrong, I want them to look for the solution in themselves rather than making excuses,” head coach Mike Fries said.
Varsity sophomore James Coller acknowledged the adjustment in competition between experienced athletes versus those who recently picked up the sport.
“The biggest adjustment was probably just because I only started two years ago and came in with everyone who has already been playing for so long,” Coller said.
Despite that, Coller reflects on how, with confidence, he belongs at the varsity level.
Fulfilling expectations for both academics and athletics can be a challenging task for a student-athlete in any circumstance. And while others may struggle, Coller reflects his ability to not only balance his responsibilities but also make enough time for them, too.
“I always take my academics first, definitely a big priority, and I think tennis always comes second, but I always have time for both,” Coller said.
For underclassmen, who make up the majority of the team, the mental side of tennis can be just as hard as the physical. Freshman Jack Stasko recounts his experiences dealing with the pressure.
“Not getting in your own head is important. I’ve probably thrown a racket a few times; it’s more of a mental game,” Stasko said. “Losing just isn’t fun.”
However, with all the pressure happening in the game, Stasko remains calm.
“Sometimes you just have to accept it,” Stasko said.
While players tend to their own struggles, Fries also has challenges to tend to himself.
“Dealing with the weather, since it’s an outdoor sport, the wind, cold, & rain can play havoc on the season,” Fries said.
Fries emphasizes the values of integrity, respect, and responsibility in his players, which he said he tries to instill in his players both on and off the court.
