Match, set, point.
On Sept. 11, the West Chicago girls tennis team took the court for a home match against Ridgewood, showcasing both the precision and pressure that define the sport. From fast serves to quick footwork, every rally demanded sharp focus, patience, and resilience.
Senior Julia Koput stepped up to deliver the opening serve of the first set, a skill that requires confidence and countless hours of practice. A strong serve can dictate the rhythm of an entire match or prove decisive on match point. To execute it, players must position themselves just behind the baseline, toss the ball with their non-dominant hand, keep their eyes on the ball, and strike through at just the right moment. Done correctly, the motion carries their weight forward into the court with force and balance.
Koput has been a Varsity standout for three years and a team captain for two. Leadership in any sport requires consistency and resilience, and her presence has helped set the tone for the team. In her time at WEGO, she has earned second place in conference, making her one of the program’s most competitive and recognizable players.
“I can really see the passion in all these girls,” senior and spectator John Benitez said.
Junior Mia Abarca bounced the ball slowly, gathering her focus before sending her serve across the net.
Senior Mia Canda stayed light on her toes, ready to strike from the baseline. Speed and anticipation often make the difference between winning or losing a rally; chasing down a ball requires quickness, but predicting where it will land is just as important.
This season, Koput has also faced the mental challenge of anxiety before matches. The pressure sometimes affects her breathing and focus, but she has developed ways to steady herself and regain composure: qualities her teammates and spectators notice.
“Julia looks cool, calm, and collected,” senior and spectator Brian Nguyen said.
Senior Alina Ortiz and junior Michelle Guevara secured their doubles match with set scores of 6-4 and 6-1. Their communication and chemistry on the court highlighted how crucial teamwork can be in earning a decisive win.
“Still surprised that we won, as Ridgewood was rumored to be really good,” Ortiz said.
Between every set, players pass the ball to one another, a small gesture that reflects tennis’s blend of patience, respect, and sportsmanship. These quiet moments also give players a chance to reset before the intensity of the next rally.
Matches are tracked manually, each number representing the games a player has collected within a set. Against Ridgewood, Koput fought through three long sets before ultimately falling 1-6, 6-2, 3-6.
Though the final score did not favor West Chicago, the Sept. 11 match captured the spirit of high school tennis: determination, camaraderie, and joy in every point played.
“I’m really proud of my team for getting this far, for being out in the heat, for practicing every day, and putting in the good work,” Koput said.