Serving Up Success

ACHIEVE. The Varsity tennis team lines up for a photo. The Tennis team works together to form a community and make memories as they prepare for another great season. Photo courtesy of Vashon Island Girls Tennis Team.

For the VHS girls tennis team, success isn’t just about winning matches, it's about building a supportive community fueled by individual growth and teamwork. Whether it's bouncing back from a tough match, balancing academics with the sport, or adapting to unpredictable spring weather, these players have shown that their commitment to the sport goes beyond the court. As the team gears up for another competitive season, their teamwork and dedication are evident through their preparation.

Tennis is often thought of as an individual sport, but for the girls on the VHS tennis team, their bond and community enhance their experience. For Freshman Piper Frith, deciding to join the team this year was largely influenced by her older sister, Sailor Frith.

“What first got me interested in wanting to play tennis at VHS was definitely my sister Sailor. She's the captain and she always tells me about how much fun it is. I’ve also always wanted to learn how to play tennis, so it seemed like a great opportunity,” Piper shared.

The dynamic of the girls’ tennis team makes playing the game enjoyable.

“I think our team has a really good community, and I feel like everyone is supported, and there is a good amount of competitiveness without people feeling judged,” Senior Sailor said.

This supportive environment allows players to challenge themselves, while knowing they have their teammates to rely on, which is crucial in a sport like tennis.

For many high school athletes, balancing sports and academics is a challenge; however there are ways to manage the workload.

“There's always the bus rides to get schoolwork done, lucky for me, I’m a senior, and my 6th period is just art, so having to skip 6th period for tennis is a-okay,” Sailor shared.

With such a packed schedule, time management becomes essential. Players often use bus rides or breaks to complete assignments, ensuring their academics stay on track. Similarly, balancing academic responsibilities with physical preparation is key.

Senior Paloma Freda stays dedicated to staying in shape as she gears up for the season.

“I’ve been going for lots of runs, I also go to the gym, and I’ve been on the courts at least once or twice a week,” Freda explained.

These off season practices ensure that players are ready for the intensity of the upcoming season. Once the season officially begins, the team practices daily, with a structured routine that works to enhance their skills.

“First we run around in circles, then we run lines, then we stretch, then Tod hits with us for a little bit, then we get put with our partners and play against them,” Junior Ada Ubach said.

This practice schedule ensures each player will be ready for the upcoming challenges of the new season. Tennis is a sport full of dramatic ups and downs, and Sailor recalls a moment that stands out in her career.

“One time me and Maddy–Maddy’s my doubles partner–were down 1-5 in a match, and we had a talk saying ‘we are not losing this match’, and so we ended up winning 7-5,” Sailor Frith said.

This comeback not only highlights their determination but also reflects the teamwork that is essential in doubles tennis. Spring weather can often be unpredictable and this year is no different. For the team, heavy rain can create challenges, but they’ve learned to adjust.

“If it’s rainy we can’t play at the high school courts because it's too slippery and too wet, so we have to go to the dome which is at the country club,” Umbach shared.

By making the most of the available indoor space, and adjusting their schedule as needed, the team is able to push through nature's challenges and remain on track for the season.

As the team looks forward to another great season, Paloma Freda is excited for what's ahead.

“I hope many of our players will make it to state, and I’m looking forward to a great season,” Freda said.

The VHS girls’ tennis team demonstrates the power of teamwork, dedication, and resilience. As they continue to support one another on and off the court, their shared goals and determination promise a bright and exciting future for the season.