The tennis team, along with its new players, had varying expectations coming into the year.
“We had a lot of new players, and many with less than a year of experience, so we weren’t sure how we would match up against other schools,” assistant tennis coach Lindsay Perry said. “The newer players picked up the game very quickly, and everyone on the team continued to improve significantly throughout the season.”
Freshman Brody Daeger played on the varsity team; he had many accomplishments throughout the season.
“The highlight of my season was during the regular season vs Perry Meridian,” Daeger said. “Our team won 3-2 and I won in 3 sets. The 2 doubles team also won in 3 sets.”
Roncalli’s star tennis player, senior Chris Stanley, battled adversity in his memorable season but overcame and finished top 20 in the state.
“The biggest challenge I faced was consistently playing at the level I know I am capable of,” Stanley said. “I had a few matches where I came out a little sloppy, but that’s what tennis is, a mental battle.”
Stanley used his teammates’ encouragement and made adjustments to contradict tough times.
“You can easily get in your head, because it is just you out there on the court,” Stanley said. “You have a team to cheer for you, but they don’t play the same guy you do. When I would come out not feeling myself, I had to adjust, and find energy somehow.”
