By Layla Alogna – Staff Reporter

Sophomore Harshitha Kothapalli has started off her second year on the Law varsity girls tennis team strong.

Kothapalli’s record so far this season is 6-4. She has been a key player who has greatly contributed to the team’s success so far this year.

“My personal goals for this season are to have a good record and to be able to make states personally and SCCs,” Kothapalli said.

The team has been conditioning and practicing since early March. They work towards getting better every day.

“We’ve been practicing every chance we get, highlighting our weaknesses, and making sure we can adapt quickly on the court to any of our opponents,” Kothapalli said.

Kothapalli, who plays second singles for Law, has several individual and team goals for the year. 

“My goal for the team is to be able to make states by winning eight matches,” Kothapalli said. “But more importantly, my goal for the team is to make sure that we’re a tight-knit group that trust each other and learn from one another.”

Head Coach Mr. Kulenych pushes Kothapalli every day. 

“Harshi has established herself this season as one of the best players on our team,” Kulenych said. “She stepped up from doubles to singles this year and has improved every match. She worked extremely hard this offseason and all of that hard work has paid off for sure.”

Kothapalli has been playing tennis from a very young age. She grew up around the sport and has much love for it. She brings that love and passion to the tennis team.

“The biggest thing I love about tennis is the joy I receive from it,” Kothapalli said. “I’ve been playing tennis my whole life and I would not know what to do without it. Whenever I have free time I think of tennis so being able to share that love with my teammates is such an amazing feeling.”

Kulenych said that Kothapalli’s attitude and work ethic have helped her reach the level of success she has had over her first two high school seasons.

“Harshi’s biggest strength is her determination on the court,” Kulenych said. “She has battled through some injuries this year, but she never gives up and fights for every point. She is also a tremendous teammate who brings a lot of fire and personality to the team.”