Senior Statement #1: Ryan Duckworth

Ryan has had an interesting path through our tennis program. Freshman year he had to fight to get matches on our large team, and he played only 9 between #2D and #3D on the JV. Sophomore year, he began a push to be higher on the team, even challenge the varsity when he hurt his ankle before the season even began. Last year he started as a JV player, and lost 2 of his first 3 matches, before winning 14 straight. He’s been through many times when things weren’t going well.

But one of the traits that defines Ryan is his patience, and eventually perseverance. When he injured himself, he served as a manager, patiently learning and watching. Last season, he patiently developed killer doubles strategies on the JV level, waiting to unleash them this season. This season started slowly as well, with 2 losses, but he didn’t panic and stayed patient and is again building a great season. Maybe it is character he develops during his fishing trips, waiting and learning to enjoy each moment. But I’ll say that it is a gift that God has given him.

It has been a pleasure to watch him grow as a player and person at Bethany. I’ve seen his patience as a peer assistant to KP in gym classes as well, working with difficult students to follow the rules and play the games fairly. It will be a pleasure to watch him grow as a student and player in his other 2 sports. And yet I’m most excited about watching the person that he becomes for God. Ryan, may you use your patience and perseverance as you work to love difficult people and wait to hear the guidance of God’s Spirit.

Isaiah 40

Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.