Talkin’ Tennis With Hannah & Lindsay

Two CB seniors have championship aspirations for the women’s tennis team — and they are having a blast in the process.

The Talon sat down with Hannah Hawkins (’14) and Lindsay Donovan (’14) to talk about the state of the CB women’s tennis team and how they got involved in the classic game.

“I was five” Lindsay says of her first introduction to tennis. “But I played at St. Francis my freshman year, and played my sophomore year when I transferred here, I took a break junior year to focus on my classes.”

Hannah had a bit of a later start, but says she took quickly to the sport.”

“I started sophomore year [and] the energy on the team is amazing, it’s so fun — I love it,” the senior says. “We work hard, but its still so fun being with all my friends were like sisters and I’m really close with the coach.”

Lindsay, a singles player, says,that the hardest part of tennis isn’t the physical aspect of the game

“I think the mental game is the hardest part,” she says.  “Like trying to stay on your game and making sure you don’t slack off when your winning and trying to compose yourself when you are losing.”

“The hardest part about tennis is being consistent,” Hannah, who plays doubles with Belle Granucci (’15) adds “If you’re not consistent ,it can really throw your game off.

They both explained how tennis is a type of sport where competing against yourself and can be the hardest part at times.

“I mean yeah I’m competitive, but sometimes I just feel like I’m not playing well, and I don’t have someone out there to pump me up,” Lindsay says. “I have to keep it together by myself — there’s no communication, and if I get mad or upset I have to suck it up. That’s the hardest part.”

Hannah says the team must maintain their spirit and enthusiasm this season and as they stay on top as they continue to win.

“Being a captain isn’t about being the best, it’s about being a part of the team and bringing everyone together and being the best support system we possible can,” Hannah stated proudly.

These girls will do great this season with the help of there amazing coach Eva Rico. They bring a great spark to the tennis team along with plenty of laughs. It will be a great season and the Talon wished them luck.