Senior Statement: Jacob Leininger

Jacob has been a story of growth as a tennis player. Freshman year, I wasn’t sure if he really wanted to play tennis or if he just wanted something to do. I watched as he learned little by little, how to move, how to swing through a forehand, and then added bits of skill to each stroke. He’s a really dedicated learner in tennis, eager to soak up any coaching or information. I’ll never forget how being in the sport for credit class helped him, as he evaluated his game and set goals for each practice and match.

It’s amazing what Jacob has been able to accomplish in tennis. His freshman year, he didn’t win a match, but came back sophomore year to have a winning record. That was quite an improvement, which continued last year as he was one of the leaders on the JV in victories. This year, he’s varied between varsity and JV a bit, but settled the last few matches at #2D. He and Josiah had a very exciting victory at the beginning of the year, and he and Breece pulled out a stellar third set victory last week against NorthWood, that has definitely been a highlight of the year.

Jacob’s posture as a learner makes him a fun person to play with on the team. He is not loudly proclaiming all he knows, but is learning alongside anyone he is practicing or playing with. His curiosity and willingness to try anything a coach or teammate suggests also comes across as very hopeful. He’s willing to try because he continues to believe in his own improvement. He is a favorite doubles partner or teammate to drill with, as he will work hard but continue to be positive. He also has an unassuming smile, and when that comes out you know that he’s just figured something out or that a point has gone just right.

These things that we get to see in Jacob through tennis are God’s fruits, shining out through him. I recognize the fruit of patience, how Jacob will dig deep and continue to give his effort. He takes the wisdom that he hears, and he puts it into practice. I also see how Jacob keeps realistic expectations, he expects to get better but doesn’t rush it to be all at once. This is also a kindness he extends to others, being gracious with doubles partners as they make mistakes or within practice as people struggle to understand. This patient, gracious kindness makes him a wonderful teammate, friend, and follower of Jesus.

Verse: Philippians 4:8-9
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.