Freshman Kate Southworth is setting a precedent for the DGN girls’ tennis team this year. She has been playing since she was five years old and now competes on the varsity level where her passion is more apparent than ever.

“I love tennis because it is an individual sport and you can play year round. Tennis is not only a physical, but a mental sport because you have to overcome discouraging thoughts you may have and allow yourself to play your best game.”

Southworth specializes in doubles and mentioned the struggles of being around upperclassmen and having to prove her skills on the team.

“At times I can be intimidated when I play some of the top players from other schools, but it pushes me to do my best and work harder to play at their level.”

Look forward to seeing Southworth on the courts for the Trojans’ conference match on Oct. 12.