Tennis team stays connected across the globe
All photos courtesy of Lee Flames.
Like all other spring sports, Lee’s tennis was canceled due to the coronavirus. A lot of players had to leave to go home, which for some included traveling to other countries.
Due to the severe conditions in some states and countries, it is hard for players and coaches to stay in touch. Luckily, there are ways the coaches can stay in touch with the players.
“We’ve been keeping up with our players over WhatsApp and also have chatted as a team on Zoom,” said Patric Hynes, head coach of men’s and women’s tennis team. “It can be challenging with everyone spread out, but it’s nice to be able to see everyone’s face!”
At the time of the cancellation, the tennis teams were in Florida for their Spring Break tournament. They won three matches in a row, bringing their record to 6-5 before the season ended.
“I think like everyone else, this is a huge learning opportunity for us,” said coach Hynes. “Our players are scattered across the world, and there are different restrictions on each player. Hopefully, at some stage, everything will return to normal, and our players can start to get themselves ready for the fall semester. In the meantime, we are encouraging each player to reflect on what they are learning from during these unprecedented times.”
This circumstance will give the players a learning experience and motivation for their next season. The toughest challenge is staying in shape through these restrictions.
“The players are doing what they can right now,” said Hynes. “ Obviously some are under more restriction than others, but quite a few have been able to get out on the court and stay in shape that way. The most important thing for our teams is staying safe and healthy right now.”
The Flames tennis teams will come back together next fall and be ready to take on another season.
