By Logan Shea
SEATTLE--5/2/2024
The O'Dea team embraced challenges head-on throughout the season and forged a path of resilience and unity. Senior Hamilton Wisen reflects,
"Our main objective for the year was to get as many guys to state as we could. I am very confident in the team as we are buzzing to get out there and show what O'Dea tennis is all about."
One of the standout moments of the season came when Wisen and his doubles partner Junior Adam Kloeppel secured a memorable set victory against Lakeside's formidable Doubles 1 team.
"It was a testament to our grit and determination," remarks Wisen.
Senior Night brought a wave of nostalgia and camaraderie as the O'Dea and HNA tennis teams celebrated together with a leap into Green Lake.
Wisen fondly recalls, "It was a moment of unity and shared passion for the sport."
Despite facing a tough 2-11 record during the regular season, the team rallied together, fueled by the determination to clinch a state title.
"It was a challenging journey, but we knew it was state title or bust," Wisen reflects.
Throughout the season, star players Junior Cormac Hummel and Sophomore Phineas Peterson showcased their tenacity, fighting hard in matches even amidst losses.
"Their resilience inspired us all," says Wisen.
Team chemistry emerged as a cornerstone of O'Dea Tennis, with players understanding each other's strengths and motivations. Wisen emphasizes,
"We had the best team chemistry in the metro league. During matches, we would inspire each other by chirping the opponent."
To maintain the team's vibrant culture, Wisen plans to recruit younger players and keep the energy high for future seasons.
"We used themes like 'Tits out Tuesday (referring to a shirtless practice) and 'Freedom Friday' to keep things exciting as the season progressed," he explains.
Reflecting on areas for improvement, Wisen acknowledges the need to enhance knowledge of tennis rules.
"We can improve by learning the rules of tennis as many instances we were lost and needed to get a coach," he states.
In closing, Wisen pays tribute to the O'Dea tennis legacy established by his brothers Truman and Mason.
"They were truly trailblazers in setting the standards and expectations for generations to come," he concludes, with a sense of pride and gratitude for the journey shared with his teammates.
With only two seniors graduating the future is bright for O'Dea tennis. Those seniors are off to great things as well. Wisen will continue his studies at the University of Utah in the fall and Senior Lorenzo Neri will continue his tennis and academic career at Catholic University.
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