With the spring sports season now upon us, junior Karsyn Asher, a member of the girls tennis team, is ready to make a statement on the court this season.
“I feel really confident in my ability,” Asher said. “I’ve been training all year leading up to the season so I feel very prepared.”
Tennis has almost always been a part of her life, starting from a fun hobby and growing into a serious sport of interest. She has been playing competitively for seven years, not only for school but also for programs like the National Junior Tennis League and Indianapolis Racquet Club High Performance.
“My journey with tennis has been nothing but good,” she said. “I've always loved this sport as it's my own therapy. The atmosphere, the people and the coaches are all what makes me love this sport.”
Not only has Asher been preparing for the physical aspect of the game this season, but she’s also been sharpening her skills on the mental side of things.
“I've met with coaches who give me breathing exercises and strategies to do so I can slow down my mind,” Asher said. “After a tough point, I usually walk back to the fence and tap it with my racket to reset my mental state. Positive self-talk is crucial when playing tennis.”
Asher has also set many goals for herself and the team this season.
“My goal that I have for this season is to do well in the tournaments we enter,” she said. “It's a high possibility that we will win sectionals and go far in the state tournament.”
Coach Jonn Patterson has coached Asher her entire high school career, creating a strong bond between them. This being her third year, she has worked hard with Coach Patterson to land a spot on the varsity team.
“She is an athlete that every coach wants on his or her team,” Patterson said. “She’s a hard worker, a leader, and a really good tennis player.”
Along with her coach, Asher has formed strong relationships with her teammates over the years, which has only made it more fun for both her and the team.
“We all have a good relationship with each other,” senior Diana Cabrera-Lopez said. “I feel like that for me. I am very close with Karsyn when it comes to tennis, and outside of tennis she’s just a very kind person and fun to hang around with.”
Overall, Asher loves the game of tennis but her favorite part isn’t exactly about the game itself.
“My favorite part about playing tennis is winning, but specifically winning with the people you love most,” she said. “Our tennis team here at Warren Central are all so close, and winning matches with them is what makes the conditioning and the burn-outs worth it. They are supportive of me and cheer me on regardless of what the match score is. I can't imagine playing this sport without these amazing girls and coach staff on my side.”