After winning four out of five matches in Hilton Head, South Carolina, the Ohio Wesleyan women’s tennis team looks to bring more than warm weather back from the adventure.
The spring break trip built a strong bond and prepared the players for the rest of the season of competition.
“It was a really good way to get to know the team,” freshman Adrienne D’Alewyn said. “We have a lot of new freshman playing high up, and with a van ride that long you’ll get to know everyone. It was good for us.”
It’s especially important as a doubles team to know the strengths and weaknesses of your partner. The team and coach Tom Drabczyk were able to try out some new partnerships during their time off.
“As a doubles team it is so important to be able to work with your partner as one. What balls to take and to move to the net together is important,” D’Alewyn said.
Coach Drabczyk helps with his players and the strategy behind the game, but in a different way than usual. Including 6am practices twice a week to keep the team going.
“He always makes us laugh and cheery on the court,” D’Alewyn said. “He’s a character and a fun coach to have.”
The team is led by four seniors and crop of freshman scattered in the lineup. Senior leadership is key for the team moving forward and keeping the attitude positive according to Sophomore Harriet Watson.
“They have so much experience and know how to handle other players, motivate and bring us up when we’re down,” Watson said. “They’re all very talented and can step up for us.”
The team has a streak of nine matches at OWU coming up next on their schedule before the end of the season NCAC tournament in Gambier, Ohio.
Coach Drabczyk was unavailable for comment at press time.