In August 2021, the economics, English, chemistry, finance, psychology, and biology majors converged on the mountain to become part of the Sewanee Women's Tennis Team. These six girls, each with their own unique personalities and playing styles, created a stronger environment than anyone could have imagined. I had the opportunity to ask our coach, Conchie Shackleford, about this group of girls once she got to know them. With over 30 years of coaching experience and a deep understanding of her players, she quickly responded with insight. "I am constantly surprised by the various personalities that unveil themselves as you get to know your players on a deeper, personal level. When recruiting, we look at grades, tennis ranking, and where they come from. But the real surprise lies in what makes them tick, what motivates them, and their priorities... This team has a very competitive spirit and strong will (and they love my cookies!)"

The Competitive Spirit in Action

The competitive spirit is clearly evident among the team members, and each of us showcases it in our own distinct ways. In tennis, where shots are limited, we put our own spins on the same ball. I, as an English major from Atlanta, GA, am not afraid to lob anything. Brooke Despriet, a finance major from Cumming, GA, slices with precision. Ansley Carpenter, a biology major from Newnan, GA, slaps the ball with such force that it's almost impossible to return. Emma Caldwell, a psychology major from Wilton, CT, sits on the baseline and hits cross court until she secures the point. Sarah Livingston, a chemistry major from Fairfax, VA, poaches at the net and never gives up until the point is over. And Cici Hardin, an economics major from New Orleans, LA, uses her infamous underspin cross court short ball to great effect.

The diversity of our playing styles adds a unique flavor to our games and makes us a force to be reckoned with on the court.

We push each other to be better and constantly strive to improve our skills.

The Team as a Family

The idea of a team being a family may seem like a cliché, but it's true for the Sewanee Women's Tennis Team. Ansley Carpenter mentioned, "It really surprised me how close we are with each other... and even with the guy's team. We have cookouts and everything, and it just seems more personal than I would have thought." The seniors this year are especially close with the freshmen, a dynamic that is not commonly seen in college sports. As Emma Caldwell put it, "We're close with the freshmen as seniors right now, and I think that's so awesome."

Spending countless hours together on trips to Italy, California, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Missouri, etc. has bonded us in a way that high school sports never could. Completing homework assignments on the bus, signing up for classes in the middle of nowhere Arkansas, and having big sit-down dinners together have all contributed to our strong team dynamic.

Even during the challenges of balancing school, job searching, and clubs with our tennis schedule, we support each other. Emma Caldwell shared, "It's definitely hard, but the coaches are very supportive and understanding. So, while it's challenging, they make it very easy and the professors are very understanding as well. Tennis has never affected my grades - it's very easy and manageable to do well."

Success on and off the Court

When thinking about this team, one word comes to mind: success. Brooke Despriet, a finance major from Cumming, GA, was recently ranked #2 in the ITA National Doubles rankings with her partner Ansley Carpenter. Carpenter is also currently ranked #40 in the ITA National Singles Rankings. The team ranked in the top 10 in the nation during their freshman year and in the top 20 in the nation at the end of their sophomore and junior years. They have also won ten consecutive conference titles.

But our success isn't just on the courts. The team worked diligently to earn the highest GPA for Sewanee's varsity women's sports with a 3.703 GPA last semester. This shows that we are not only talented athletes but also dedicated students.

Our achievements are a testament to the hard work and determination of each team member. We motivate each other to be the best we can be and support one another through thick and thin.

The Legacy of Sewanee Tennis

As we move on to different states, take on different jobs, and lead different lifestyles, we will carry with us the life lessons learned together as a team. Sewanee tennis will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

Our experiences on the tennis court have taught us valuable lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and the importance of supporting one another. These lessons will stay with us long after we leave Sewanee.

Sewanee Athletics as a whole is a close, tight-knit family. Every sport works hard to motivate each other and lift each other up. Tennis has remained strong because of the support received from the entire Sewanee Athletics community.