2008 Woodie Awards
Men's tennis team exemplifies camaraderie and confidence
Sarah Blau
Issue date: 4/13/07 Section: Sports
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"Good Shot!" The sprinkling of spectators applauds one of Guilford's tennis players.
"Lucky Shot!" The player's opponent interjects.
Minutes later, the same opponent screams in defeat as his ball drops dead in the net again.
The men's tennis team won their April 5 match against St. Mary's with a final score of 6-3, adding a sixth match to their winning streak. In a huge turnaround from last year's 0-12 record, this game brought the team's current season record to 8-4.
The eight players are talented on the court, but their winning power comes from their attitude and confidence as individuals and as a team.
"In every tennis match you'll have moments when things get difficult," said first-year head coach Bert Poole. "At that moment you either believe in yourself or you start thinking of reasons why you're going to lose, and that's what these guys have learned not to do."
One of Poole's primary concerns is his players' mentality. He believes their success results from a solid-mindedness and consistency of style that the team has developed over the year.
"Now they're very conscious of staying in the match," Poole said. "Like this team today, every kid out there was as talented, was as good as our team ... We were just a little stronger mentally. That's why we're doing well."
Last year, the men's tennis team fell apart and lost every match by default. Players were disappointed with a lack of seriousness and a lack of organization from their coach. This year's new coach has pulled the team back together, and the players appreciate his seriousness and effort.
"Now that Coach Poole is here it seems like we've got everything," said junior team member Jose Ortiz. "When you're in a team, you expect to make some sacrifices. You might not eat as well some days. You might not travel in luxury. But since Coach has been here, we ride in big busses, we're eating good dinners and that helps out. It adds up, (and that's why) we're on this winning streak."
The team exudes an impressive amount of optimism and camaraderie, especially given that matches are only one-on-one singles or doubles.
Viewing Comments 1 - 1 of 1
Ann Carrithers
posted 5/07/07 @ 10:55 AM EST
Enjoyed it very much; since we have seen two of Guilford's matches in which they won both. Enjoyed meeting the team. I liked their attitude on the court & their politeness off the court. (Continued…)
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