Athlete Focus: It Takes Two

Ariel Brown started playing tennis because “it is an individual sport that is incredibly fun,” but this year she is also paired up in a doubles team with Kennedie Ederger.

“I love my doubles partner!” said Brown. She is just so sweet and always gives 100%! Her ground strokes are fast and precise as well as her serves.”

The duo works well together and Ederger had great things to say about Brown as well. “I get along well with my doubles partner,” she said. “She is very good at her forehand shot, cross-court and lobbing. She doesn’t have any weaknesses.”

Since the girls are in different grades, they do not see each other very often. “I see her during passing periods sometimes,” said Ederger.

Tennis is the one sport that the girls both play and they both intend to play in college. “I hope to play tennis at one of the best colleges,” Ederger said. “As long as I’m having fun I will continue to play.” Brown also enjoys spending time horseback riding, but not competitively. Brown also plays piano and is “super involved” at her church.

Brown would encourage potential athletes to go ahead and try. “Don’t be afraid to join a sport you’ve never played. Join so you can learn. You’re not alone. I joined the team without experience and now enjoy playing everywhere,” she said. Ederger had similar advice. “I would say, ‘Go for it!’ Sports are a great way to keep busy, meet many new people and to get fit… I hope everyone does something they love. Once you find your passion, just keep going because you will be surprised with what you can accomplish.”

It’s not always about winning, either. “My most memorable games are when I lose,” Ederger said. “Losing teaches me to move on from my mistakes and to grow because of them.

Brown recalled a game that she played last year against Vacaville. “They tried to win the set by cheating when it was set point,” she said. “5-4, 40-40. We called a line judge and ended up winning the set and match.”

“Tennis is underrated! It’s a great sport,” said Brown. “We have lots of seniors and will need more people. Even if you’ve never played before, we accept everyone to at least attend practice.”