Tennis teams practice their swings during winter

IMAGE / Dylan Brewer

Alysa Figgins (left to right), Hailey Oryszczak, Aysia Booth, Kayla Smith, Jasmine Patrick, Lindsay Nofs, Kelsie Rose, and Santino Guerra (front) pose for a picture before practice. The players practice at Hill Road Sports Complex.

Both the boys’ and girls’ tennis teams began winter practices the first week of December at Hill Road Sports Complex.

Practices are held on Sundays from 1:30 to 3 p.m. with a tennis instructor.

Winter workouts at the indoor sports center allow tennis players to continue practicing, despite the cold weather outside.

Mr. Jared Rawls, boys’ coach, said he believes the winter practices will improve the players’ performances.

“Hopefully through learning from an expert, they’ll be able to practice technically sound maneuvers,” Rawls said.

The players are also optimistic about the workouts.

Junior Kelsie Rose, who played at the No. 2 singles spot last year, looks forward to having a better season after she improves this winter.

“I am excited that we’re all working together to have a better season,” Rose said.  “I think the tennis lessons will help improve our technique and skill level.”

Junior Santino Guerra, captain of the boys’ team, said the extra practice is good for the Hornets.

“The lessons will give the teams a better understanding of the game,” Guerra said.

Most importantly, Rawls said the workouts will help the players improve their swings.

“Through practice, their muscle memory will get better, and, hopefully, lead to wins on the court,” Rawls said.