Before the school year even started, I was more than excited for tennis season even though it was in the spring which was quite a while away. I was ready for those windy practices, evil conditioning, and getting to be with my supportive team every day. February hit and I got a wrist injury two weeks before tryouts. I was discouraged, but the support I received from you guys and the memories we created alleviated the pain I had.
Let's just say this season was the perfect way to kick off 2017 and end most of our last semesters of high school.
From day one of practice, we didn't even act like strangers to one another. We had a unique relationship ever since the beginning because we were basically sisters from day one. It's weird how we skipped the whole "being friends" phase and just skipped entirely to being "sisters from different misters." The first two weeks of the season felt like we had known each other forever because that's just how tight we were.
Oh, and how can I forget our crazy memories and inside jokes? I sure can't. I wonder if our team is the only one that bonds over comparing our levels of "purity" with each other. Also, we can't forget about the Panera Bread story that some of us say repeatedly. It's interesting how almost 75% of our jokes are made from low-key making fun of coach (in a good way). The other 25% consisted of how much food we could eat, being overly competitive at ping-pong, having our pre-match song playlist being frowned down upon, and flossing the night before a tournament/match for good luck.
Besides the jokes and laughter that we all had, we also shared together so much encouragement and support. It's what made our team so special. Even if one of our players were down 0-5, we still said the phrase, "It's comeback time!" This sense of belief is what pulled us together like a magnet.
I can't speak for everyone, but May 18th and 19th marked to be the most memorable few days of my life.
It was time for State Tennis and to show everyone how hard we worked this season. I was so ecstatic those days because all of you fought for every point like it was your last and some of us that were not playing came out and unleashed some fiery spirit for the Mustangs. Watching everyone play their last few matches and getting to cheer alongside some of you guys those two days was such an honor and it was something so unforgettable.
On May 19th, the long, tough grind throughout all of the season was finally recognized.
The results were astounding! 5th place in #2 doubles, 2nd in #1 doubles, and 2nd in #2 singles which are all not easy tasks. I'm still so proud of all of you! Our high school placed 4th in the State which was far better than the previous year.
It couldn't have been possible without your dedication, Coach's encouraging advice and training, and the countless number of Jimmy John's sandwiches provided by the committed parents. I will never forget the number of tears shed that day as it finally hit us that we won't be together everyday after school anymore. I just want to say that we will still be together, maybe not physically, but mentally, yes...even if it's just through our snazzy Snapchat group chat.
As my time for college tennis soon approaches, I can’t help but acknowledge the impact that all of you have had on me. I hope we never lose touch with each other even when we all live in different areas of the world. In my heart, I know that the special bond will remain present between us no matter the distance. We became a family in a short amount of time and that is something that I personally can never forget.
Despite the killer suicides, obnoxious crowds, and upsetting losses, our relationships just kept growing and I’m thankful for that. To all of you (my teammates and coach), I will always remain all of your fans and I will continue to cheer you on even if it’s not on a tennis court. I love each and every one of you. Thanks for the best season of my life. Thanks for being so supportive. Thanks for not being afraid to be yourselves.
To the now college freshmen, I can't wait to see what the future has in store for all of you. To the players still on the team, take this season as something to jump off of and bring it home next year. To the super caring and chill coach, thanks for dealing with our craziness and helping us out every step of the way.
Just remember, don't underestimate yourselves and keep bouncing back.
With lots of love,
Your number one fan
