by Peter S.

Although tennis season is a short one, it is filled with excitement and triumph for the Alamo Heights Mules. It’s circled on many calendars—and for good reason. It’s a time to play a fun sport in great weather at a great school. It’s no wonder it’s many students’ favorite sports season of the year.

A new district brings many changes, but most importantly, it means new competition. “I want to explore our city’s competition,” said Finn Seki, a member of last year’s tennis team. After last year’s dominance over every team Alamo Heights faced, many players are hoping for a more challenging district, which they believe this new district will provide.

Last year’s dominance not only creates a hope for tougher competition, but it also gives the Alamo Heights Mules confidence going into this year’s season. “I think we will be ranked No. 1 at the end of the season because we are the top dogs,” said Merritt Lasswell, a member of Mule Time Media. This confidence could propel the Mules forward, but it could also work against them if they’re not careful as the season progresses.

The Mules’ preparation for upcoming matches varies day to day, but the key ideas always stay the same. “We practice everything you need to become a great tennis player,” said Zach Anderson, a key player in last year’s success. “We might practice serves one day and approach shots the next, but the main ideas stay the same,” he explained. It’s clear that Coach Hardy knows how to develop well-rounded tennis players.

One of Coach Hardy’s main focuses is preparing her athletes for high school, even if they don’t plan to continue playing. “Yes, I plan to play in high school,” said Finn Seki. Playing tennis for the junior school is a great way to prepare for high school, but there’s more work needed outside of school to make the team. Many players know this, which is why they attend various camps and practices.

The success of last year’s team is something the players hope to replicate, and most believe they will. The team is full of many young, talented, and hardworking players who are determined to win—even against the best players in all of San Antonio.