By Madeline Acker

Op/Ed Editor

    Among R.J. Reynolds High School’s many athletic programs, one in particular had an outstanding season this fall. While the RJR women’s tennis team has long been known for its skill and consistency, the past few months have ushered in a new era of achievement. Not only was the team crowned as conference champions, but they also advanced to the second round of the state playoffs.

   A major factor behind the women’s tennis team’s recent string of triumphs is the close-knit dynamic the players share both on and off the court. Whether it’s grabbing breakfast at Bagel Station after an early practice or gathering for a team dinner at the start of the season, the athletes have made it a priority to foster a genuine sense of camaraderie.

    “My favorite part about playing RJR tennis is how close the whole team is,” junior Evie Soriano said. “It makes me look forward to practice because I get to spend time with my best friends while also playing a sport we all love.”

    While the team has had very successful seasons for the past three years, their collective hard work and determination have especially paid off this year. A recent rezoning of school districts placed the women’s tennis team in a new conference. Although this shift removed a few longstanding rivalries, it ultimately opened doors for even greater success and allowed them to test their abilities against new opponents.

    “We changed conferences this year and ended up playing in a different one than our biggest rival: Davie County,” Soriano said. “Even though we missed out on that competition, this new conference has really allowed us to thrive compared to any other year.”

    Although the roster is relatively small, there is certainly no lack of leadership and grit. In previous years, RJR’s women’s tennis team almost always featured two senior captains, but this season, they were led by a single captain, senior Elizabeth Kim. Despite being the sole senior, Kim has been an example of leadership, character, and talent.

    “I loved being the captain for this team that is so supportive of each other and a team that is always willing to fight to win every match,” Kim said.

    Of course, no account of the team’s success would be complete without acknowledging their coach, Johnny Highsmith. With over a decade of coaching experience and an enduring passion for the sport, Highsmith has been a fundamental component in guiding the team to victory year after year. Known for his enthusiasm, humor, and unwavering support, he has left a lasting mark on his players, both as athletes and as individuals.

    “Johnny is not a man of few words,” Soriano said. “He talks a lot, but one thing he is really good at is cheering for us.”

    With the solid foundation the RJR women’s tennis team has built, there is no doubt that they will continue to reach new heights in the seasons to come. As the players continue to grow together in skill and spirit, their legacy of excellence is only just beginning.

    “If everyone puts in the work, I think we can expect to see even better results from the team next year,” sophomore Jane Welch said.