
Hawken Girls Tennis Begins Season 5-0
The Hawken tennis team started the week 5-0 following a big 3-2 win over Massillon Jackson last Thursday.
"The goals this season are to win big matches when it counts, respect each other and to support one another both on and off the court," stated program director and head tennis coach Brian Smallwood.
Smallwood has an experienced and talented group of athletes this fall who are strong across all positions as he enters his sixth year with the Hawken girls tennis program.
On the court, the Hawks return four state qualifiers to their lineup. Senior Eliana Yang and juniors Hayley Garber, Bea Hardacre and Anjali Jawa were battle tested in the state tournament in 2021 and are hoping to pursue state titles this season. Sophomore Bella Hsieh was a district qualifier last season and senior Tina Tewari returns for her fourth season as a varsity starter.
New to the squad, freshman Dani Forte is currently undefeated at first singles. Forte has been pivotal in the team wins against Kenston and Massillon Jackson.
The team took its first loss against Magnificat on Tuesday evening, falling 2-3.
"Tennis is a sport that is filled with constant ups and down, so it often helps to motivate players via mental toughness," Smallwood explained.
"Coach Smallwood does a great job in giving advice and knowing just when to support us, offering helpful advice during matches and supporting us whenever a member of the team is struggling," Yang noted. "He isn't afraid to be strict and honest with us if things aren't going well and I believe it is this discipline and high standards that has allowed our team to succeed."
Despite the recent loss, the team has a lot of positive momentum as they push through the mid-way point of the season.
"We have a really talented team," said Tewari. "I love when our matches are close towards the end and the whole team is cheering each other on, it really shows how we all come together in tough situations."
"I am looking forward to watching how our team unifies as the season progresses," said Smallwood. "Some of the best memories in high school sports are simply the bonds and relationships you develop with your fellow players."
Catch the Hawks in action on Thursday, September 8 at 4:00 PM when they take on Hathaway Brown on the Gates Mills campus.