Senior Statement: Joseph Mounsithiraj

Joseph is the kind of player that every coach craves. He is alert, insightful and curious. He loves the game of tennis and wants to develop complex ideas and strategies to take advantage of the skills that he has. He is a team player, but also works independently on his skills to build, grow and succeed. He has a great confidence in the strategies and skills he has worked on, and believes that he can execute them when the pressure is on.

Because of his mindset, Joseph has succeeded on the tennis court. From his sophomore year to his junior year, he took an incredible leap in skill. He went from two years of sub-.500 JV tennis to a 15-5 run on the varsity, including advancing to the Individual Sectional with Nathan Oostland. As his record stands right now, he would crack the top 20 all-time in winning percentage among Bruin tennis players. He’s served up numerous aces and overhead smashes, as well as owning the only one-handed backhand on the team.

And that backhand says a lot about him. Joseph is not afraid of being different in his pursuit of excellence, in fact, I rather think he likes that. From using tactics like the I-formation or the SABR return, to the one handed backhand, Joseph is an individual. And yet, he excels as he brings these unique elements into a team aspect - into his doubles matches or into our team at large. His improvement has pushed our doubles to the forefront the last two years, making both of our doubles teams work hard and push forward. His commitment to difference has allowed us to deal with different things in practice, and not be surprised by them in matches.

On our team, Joseph demonstrates that fruit of the Spirit of self-control. He pushes himself and believes the best for himself. In so doing, he models effectiveness and belief for the rest of the team. I appreciate this so much. I appreciate him so much. I appreciate talking tennis, answering questions and considering new perspectives. He is such a capable and thoughtful young man!

Verse: Isaiah 40:31
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.