Tennis, the sport of a lifetime, is a dynamic and exhilarating sport that many Plano Senior students participate in. Katie Riggs, a senior, has taken a deep enjoyment for the sport.

     “On the tennis team, I have gained so many friendships that have been long-lasting,”  Riggs said. “I am also incredibly competitive so being on the court is a place I can release that competitive spirit as well as some of my stress and anxiety.”

     Taking part in a sports team fosters strong social bonds and the potential for lifelong friendships. These connections provide emotional support and a sense of belonging.

     “With this being my last year on the tennis team, I strive to make this team feel more like a family so people who felt the same way as me growing up have a safe place to be,” Riggs said.

     Having a home for students is important for their mental health. These experiences teach mental resilience and the ability to bounce back from setbacks. For Katie, being on the tennis team has played that crucial role. 

    “The tennis team has also taught me the importance of responsibility,” Riggs said. “Other than tennis, I am also involved in other inside and outside of school activities so having to balance practice time with those activities has been a challenge. Because of my passion for it, I have learned how to have better time management.” 

     Being a part of a sports team demands discipline and time management. Balancing practice, games, and academic or work commitments requires careful planning and prioritization.

     “The importance of being on a sports team cannot be overstated. Beyond the physical benefits, team sports offer a comprehensive education in life skills, character development, and building meaningful relationships.” said tennis coach Lee Ward.