Dom Ramer - Senior Statement

 

Coach's Statement
Dom has been an important part of our tennis team ever since he moved back from Kansas just before his freshman year. As I remember, tennis camp was in the first week or so after the family moved back, and Dom really didn’t know that many people at Bethany yet. But he came and had a great time (I think) and the rest is history. He’s been a varsity player for us the last two years, really hitting his stride in doubles recently. He’s also been involved in the girl’s tennis program, being a manager in the spring for Daniel and the girl’s team. In all of those roles, he’s been so valuable.

My favorite tennis memories with Dom have come recently. In the past two matches I’ve seen him play with confidence and belief that is awesome. He and Aaron’s comeback victory against NorthWood is a memory from this season that I’ll always cherish. It seemed as if they were discovering things right in front of my eyes and I love that. He’s had other matches that have made for good fun to, matches at Northridge his sophomore year playing singles where we all gathered up to cheer him on. Matches where he’s been the cheerleader, encouraging others. But there’s nothing like seeing the confidence he’s brought this month.

Beyond the court, Dom is a determined self-improver. He’s not the type of person to float through a drill or take it unseriously. He pushes himself to become better when he takes on the task. I love that determination. But when it comes to how he interacts with others on the team, we’ve really seen Dom turn into a leader this summer and fall. As a leader, Dom is a “uniter,” someone who brings people together. That’s part of why he makes such a good manager for the girl’s team. For our team here in the fall, he’s someone who has brought team concerns to me, who notices how other people are feeling, who cares about his teammates. He’s a leader for our team, but a leader who clothes himself with compassion. That’s why I’ve chosen the following verse to represent both a feeling of who Dom is but also a prayer about the type of leader he can continue to be in the world.

Colossians 3:12-14
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

Dom, you have been a great representation for our team this year of wisdom. You have embodied much of what we want this team to be about - creating a place of belonging, humility and accountability. My prayer for you is that these wonderful gifts strengthen and grow in you, and that you continue to carry that wherever you walk in this world. Thanks Dom!

Senior Statement - Gideon Miller

 

Coach's Statement
Gideon has been a member of the Bruin varsity team since his very first match of freshman year. He’s a hard working leader, who throws everything he has effort-wise into every drill. He expects a lot of himself, and has improved on his natural skills with a lot of hard work. He’s worked on quickness, anticipation, and his serve to be able to play at the highest level he can. He’s constantly analyzing and figuring out what tiny tactic he can switch to squeeze a little more out of his game. Sometimes it’s a little too much for his coach-of-a-dad when we’ve had a long 4 hour practice day and he wants to talk about it some more, but it shows how dedicated he is.

I have so many great memories of Gideon on the tennis court. From winning an 8th grade tournament in the spring and then being the clinching point in his first match in high school that fall. The way Gideon holds the record for most unfinished matches, now standing at 3 in his career (because it gets dark or it rains in the middle :-) I love his ability to keep fighting, like his sophomore year when he told me he couldn’t beat the player he was playing so I told him he should just go ahead and come off the courts, then he went on to win in a third set. And one of my favorite characteristics of Gideon’s game is that he always gets better the second time that he plays someone. From early in his career, Gideon was someone who could figure things out.

It’s served him well. Most people know that Noah set the record for most victories last year, but Gideon is going to finish in the top 5, if not higher. If not for the rain outs of tournaments that he has experienced over the years, he’d already be near the #2 slot. Still, his successes are not what make him valuable to the team. It’s his never-give-up attitude that inspires us. I have encouraged Gideon many times over the years with the message - if it’s down to the end, you can outlast anyone. I’ll always put my money on you.

Gideon as a person is someone who is full of belief. He believes in himself, he believes in his teammates. That makes me so proud. Gideon carries a deep belief that things can be better, that with focus and perseverance what is broken can be fixed, what is lost can be redeemed, what feels impossible can get a little closer. The next adjustment, the next step of faith, the next nugget of wisdom - that might turn everything around. The world needs that kind of hope. Our team needs that type of hope.

My prayer for Gideon is that he will feel the peace of God. That he will know that he is seen and loved. While there is the opportunity for improvement, Gideon is loved so deeply just as he is. You all are. Here’s a verse that I picked that I hope resonates for Gideon, as it displays both pieces of his character and pieces of my prayer for him.

Colossians 3:15-17
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Finally, as my son, I cannot end this time without saying how proud I am of you. How dear it has been to me to spend these 4 years together, celebrating and working. How much I delight in growing and learning with you (and your brother now too). I love you more than I could ever say in a 5 minute speech like this. I am so pleased with you!

Senior Night - Noah Schrock

Noah is the son of Mandy Yoder and Jon Schrock. He has been a Bruin varsity player for four seasons. Over the course of those seasons, he has won more matches than any Bruins player in the history of the tennis program. In winning so many matches, Noah has thrived on consistency and a mental attitude that sees any match as a problem he can ultimately solve. He has so many tools in his toolbox, from a big serve to all types of spin. Truly, he’s a fantastic player, the best the Bruins have ever had.

Noah has given us many memorable matches. Some of the first that spring to mind are all of his match-ups against Wawasee’s #1 that have been ridiculously close. I’ll remember great matches where he provided winning points, back in his 9th grade year against Prairie Heights or last year against Elkhart. I’ll remember his run to the Individual Sectional final last year, or his being named to the All-District team - one of the top 12 players in all of northeast Indiana. This year has already given us great tennis as well, a top flight battle against Goshen and Saturday’s tournament.

But I’ll also remember other things about Noah. He’s the most coachable player that I’ve ever coached. He has the ability to do a lot of different things, and he listens, takes in the information, and understands. He’s willing to try something new and doesn’t panic if it doesn’t work on the first point. This means a lot to me, because it shows he trusts his coaches (one of which is me 🙂) He also stays calm, but then let’s go with positive emotion. You rarely see Noah muttering around in frustration, but you might often see him brimming with a confident “Let’s go!” He models this so well! And this season, I’ve seen him growing in his leadership and excitement for all of his teammates. He was dancing around after we beat Northridge, even though that’s his only loss on the season. He was standing at the fences, encouraging Gideon and Judah as they tried to close out Westview. Coachable, calm, and caring.

My prayer for Noah is simple, that the patience he has in playing this way on the tennis court transfers right over to the other areas of life he will lead. He reminds me of this verse...

Galatians 6:9
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

Noah, may God bless the ways ahead of you with grace. Thanks for the player and person you’ve been for us!

Senior Night - Keagan Meyer

Son of Melissa Thomas and Travis Meyer. Keagan has been an encouraging leader and teammate all four years of his high school career, as well as playing important roles for the varsity the past two seasons. Keagan has always been someone who pumps up the team - both with words and effort. This year he’s transitioned to a very important piece of our #1D team with Emerson. But even more importantly, he’s been a person who continues to point us the way of positivity, electricity, and belief in our ability.

My memories of Keagan’s matches are all about his grit. I don’t think I’ve ever seen him give in. He’s worked hard, taken instruction, and committed to movement. He’s worked on his confidence and consistency. I remember him out with Breece and Ethan in his early high school years, taking extra time to try to figure out his serve or forehand. Just this summer, he was one who texted several times for me to come out and help him figure things out. My favorite drill was having him serve through a whole match, and imagine the pressure of it. Then, I got to see him handle that pressure in a real and important match as he helped us defeat Northridge for the first time in 10 years.

But my memories of Keagan will extend beyond any matches won or lost. He’s a leader to look up to. He’s one who welcomed my own son onto the team, heaping encouragement on Judah and the other freshmen this summer throughout camp and summer tennis league. He’s one who leads us through stretches, starts the echoes out in a match, goes to lead the cheering section when someone needs it to finish out a victory. He’s someone who comes up and requests, “Can we go out on the court and lift him up when he wins.” He’s someone who turns to his doubles partner before the third set and says, “Well, we won the first set 6-3, so why not win this set 6-1?” Then they go and do it... twice.

My prayer and hope for Keagan is that this leadership builds strong bonds around him, and around his world. That his way in the world continues to build positive, electric and full of belief. Here’s a verse that reminds me of the type of person that Keagan is...

Philippians 2:3
Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

Keagan, I really like the way you’ve been a leader and a friend. We love you, man!

Senior Night - Emerson Landis

Son of Tara and Lucas Swartzendruber Landis. Emerson has been a constant on the Bruins varsity team since his 10th grade year, when he started playing #2D in the middle of the season. He’s been someone who pushes himself to do his best during the tennis season, practicing with the intent to improve his skills and perfect his game. Season after season, he has added new skills to his repertoire. A great example is how he’s added a killer topspin forehand to his game when he could hardly hit topspin for his first 2 years on the HS team. I love watching Emerson let these weapons loose and play with confidence.

My favorite tennis memories of Emerson come from these times, when in close matches he trusted his weapons and had epic moments. His 10th grade year defeating NorthWood with Tristan, last year taking down Elkhart with Adam, and this year winning the match for us against Northridge with his fellow senior Keagan. In those matches, Emerson served with confidence, trusted his partners, and had so much fun. Emerson is laid back most of the time, but I love to see him excited and joyful during and after these amazing performances.

Another thing about these awesome matches is what it reveals about Emerson’s character. In each one of those matches, he and his partners faced difficulties. In two of the matches, he had to come from behind in the first set to take it. This year against Northridge, he had to bounce back from losing the second set. And when Emerson faces difficulty, you can see it. He cares and he wants to do well. But where some might fade and tailspin, Emerson has a stick-to-it-ness that brings him back. He might be down for a bit, but he is faithful to come back.

He can be hard on himself, but he learns, takes encouragement and comes back stronger. That’s a true talent, a great quality to take into the wider world. In these things, he has always continued to be a great teammate and friend as well. He has had an instrumental role in making this team into a positive, electric, and believing place.

My prayer for Emerson is that he continues to see difficulties and weaknesses as opportunities, ways that his faithfulness and God’s strength can shine through. Here is a verse that reminds me of Emerson and my hope for him...

2 Corinthians 12:9
My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.

I appreciate you and all you’ve done for Bruin tennis, Emerson! We will miss you after this season!

Senior Statement: Adam Seimens Rhodes

 

Adam is an unorthodox tennis player. What I love about Adam is that even though Adam’s strokes don’t look like everyone else, Adam uses the strengths of these swings to get the most of the game. Adam moves into the best positions to use great hands, a solid overhead, and quickness - all attributes that Adam possesses. Adam worked hard this year to make the serve bite and stay low, and has been having great success with that.

During Adam’s time as a Bethany tennis player, Adam has had many things to remember. I reminder his first varsity match this season, which Adam won, and Adam reminding everyone that Adam’s varsity record was 100%. Adam also had a stretch in 10th grade where every match was close, within a break of serve. Adam has also had success at the Fremont Invitational, where Adam’s doubles teams have taken 3rd place the past two seasons.

Some of my favorite Adam memories have come this season. I loved Adam’s presence at tennis camp this season, which was the first one Adam was able to attend. During the times that I sat and ate with Adam, or waited near the end of the line, it just seemed like Adam had a peaceful presence. Easy to be with. Adam confirmed that part of our team focus that stuck out was “let your gentleness be evident to all.” I have found that Adam truly does that for our team. Adam is a great partner to play doubles with, a great person to talk to, a great teammate to do a drill with. Adam won’t lose the calm and peace of the moment, and so that is a gift to the whole team.

My prayer for Adam is that the gentleness and peace that is shown for others, Adam can also have for himself. And that it may grow and influence not just our team, but all the communities Adam is a part of.

Verse: Philippians 4:5
Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.

Senior Statement: Ian McHugh

Ian is a talented tennis player, possessing many different skills. Ian can topspin, slice, drop shot, get to the net, hit an overhead, drive a passing shot and many more. This variety has made Ian a fun person to coach throughout the time at Bethany. Ian’s also such a good listener, willing to try combining various shots in different ways. Over the end of last year and this year’s season, Ian has been our #3 singles player, and done a great job there.

As a Bethany tennis player, Ian has had many memorable matches. Certainly at the top of that list was last year’s first round of Sectional match against NorthWood. We needed one more position to secure the team win, and Ian fought through a difficult second set against the Panthers to provide the point. I still remember being so relieved, as Ian tossed off a hat in seeming relief as well. But for me, my favorite Ian tennis memory will probably always be the first match of last season, where Ian and Gideon provided the winning point against Jimtown. My son’s first varsity win had a lot to do with Ian playing so solid in a third set that they swept through, winning 6-0.

And this is a thing that I find is true about Ian, getting stronger as things go on. Last year, Ian was a bit shaky at the beginning of the season, but by Sectional the skills were very refined. Ian might have timid starts to matches, but by a third set the game was tuned in. Against Jimtown, against NorthWood, against Wabash... Ian finds improvement as things go on. Ian is able to identify what is good, what is working, what is beautiful. And then Ian moves toward those things.

My prayer and hope for Ian is that the team verse continues to be a strength in life: That Ian will find the good and continually move closer to it.

Verse: Philippians 4:8
Finally, 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.

Senior Statement: Tristan Mast

Tristan is a great tennis player. Let me say that again, so that Tristan can hear it. Tristan is a great tennis player. He has strengths that few others have, a big whipping forehand and a low darting serve. This makes him an exceptional doubles player, who can be trusted in a big rally. Tristan also has a personality that others look to, which makes him a great doubles partner as well.

During his time as a Bethany tennis player, Tristan has been in some fabulous matches. Last year, when we played NorthWood, he and Emerson secured a 7-5, 7-5 victory that clinched the match for the team and was so exciting. I’ll also always remember receiving texts about how well he played in the Fremont Invitational his sophomore year, when he won a tiebreak playing singles in the final round. This year, he played his best tennis of the year over the last couple of matches - but I also will remember how well he competed in the scrimmage against a strong Angola doubles team.

Some of my favorite Tristan memories aren’t just on the court. I love how honest Tristan has been over his career about how he’s feeling. He is able to talk to me and let me know why he is upset, but also able to adjust and understand a different point of view. He can be too hard on himself, and often is willing to acknowledge that and try to take encouragement, to see a different angle. But despite holding himself to a high standard, he’s never so difficult on himself that he bounce back and try again. That’s one of the things I’ve really appreciated about Tristan, he’s always faithful in coming back to the work.

And that’s something about Tristan that is amazing, that perseverance... or what I might call faith. My prayer is that willingness to come back, to work, to take on a challenge, leads to great places in his life.

Verse: 2 Timothy 4:7
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Senior Statement: Justin Hochstedler

Justin is a key contributor to our varsity team this season. With his improved and consistent serve, his quick movement at the net, and his strong putaway game, Justin brings a presence of solidity to our number one doubles team. During practice, Justin is a hard worker, never complaining about the heat, rain, or physical requirements of a drill. He is someone who instead is always figuring out how to succeed, and how his teammates might succeed right along with him.

I have memories of this perseverance and work. At the beginning of this season, Justin struggled with return. He had me serve ball after ball, trying to stay down, move forward, find his timing. And he has improved. In one win this season over Fremont, he was switched to singles and the match came down to his position. After losing the first set, he didn’t quit, but instead began to take in the coach’s advice and put it into practice. That’s a theme for Justin. When put in difficult positions in tennis, he stays with it. He gives all his effort. Even when thrown into his first varsity singles match in a Sectional final against an undefeated player, he’ll play his best match and never quit.

Justin embodies for our team part of our theme verse for the season. What he learns and sees, he puts into practice. I am grateful for the listening that I see in Justin, and hope that our entire team is mindful to that. I also appreciate the way that he encourages his teammates, going out of his way to make sure that they are included in drills or even events after practice.

My prayer and hope for Justin is that he takes the listening, hard work and encouragement, and steps forward as a wise and thoughtful leader. He has the temperament and presence that others will look up to.

Verse: Philippians 4:9
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.

 

Senior Statement: Elliot Hertzler Gascho

Elliot joined the tennis team his junior year. I still remember the first meeting he came to because he was interested in tennis. I didn’t yet know his name, because I don’t always interact with high school classes. I got to know him over the past two seasons and summers and he’s been a blessing! Most days on the court he is lighthearted and encouraging. During practice games, it’s fun to watch him belting big forehands and calling out encouragement. This year, it’s been fun to see him take a leading role on the JV and interact with students much younger than him.

My favorite tennis memories of Elliot actually include matches that I didn’t even get to see him play. You see, Elliot is my communicator, always letting me know how things are going when I am away. Last year, I was with the varsity at the Portage tournament while Elliot and Keagan were advancing to the finals of the Fremont JV tournament. Each round I got an excited text from Elliot describing the details of the match and what went well. I loved it. This year, the JV played an away match at Wawasee. Again, Elliot won and he let me know right away, then continued to update me as the match went right down to the wire and his freshman teammate Ethan won in a tiebreak. Elliot celebrated over text with me, and I loved that excitement from him!

This is my favorite thing about Elliot, when he connects and shares his joy with others. I’ve seen him do this in school as an assistant for gym classes. I’ve seen him do this at camp, talking to the younger players and including them. I’ve seen him do this at matches, bringing excitement and energy. I’ve seen him make connections and care for his opponents, being sympathetic and helpful to some of the JV players he’s faced that are just learning the game.

My prayer for Elliot is that he uses this for building community and relationships. We’re grateful for the ways he’s provided that for our team.

Verse: Hebrews 13:16
And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.

 

Senior Statement: Cameron Heinisch

Cameron is a solid tennis player. He’s one of those players with no real weakness, every part of his game holds up to the pressure. He whips his forehand cross court, finds pressure serves, has the touch for a drop shot, and can create angles with his volleys. He has many tools in his toolbox, so to speak. That has made him equally adept at playing singles or doubles this year, positions where he has split his time. And he has brought all his passion and emotion to those positions, fighting to give this team the best chance at success possible.

During his time as a Bethany tennis player, Cam has faced all sorts of challenges. His sophomore season began with him being asked to step up onto the varsity for the first six matches. His junior season saw him make the incredibly difficult leap from #1SJV to #1S on the varsity. This season has seen it’s fair share of challenge as well, adjusting from doubles to singles sometimes within the same day. But there have been plenty of great memories along the way, like when Cam won 10 straight games to defeat NorthWood last year, or when he and Breece handled the tiebreak pressure and took down Westview.

Some of my favorite Cameron memories come before or after practice. He’s the one who is hanging around after practice, talking to guys that are down on themselves. He’s the one listening to them and encouraging them. He’s the one before practice helping guys blow off steam from a difficult day of school. He’s the one speaking up for others when practice is a little too intense, or when I came down too hard on someone. He’s the one who puts the team dynamic front and center.

And that’s something about Cameron that is amazing. He has put his heart into this team. He has dared to love people. Sometimes people let you down, and the danger of loving is that it sometimes hurts when others don’t care as much as you do, or don’t try. But Cameron in many different areas of his life, Cameron has chosen to dive into relationships. I mean, listen to his words of wisdom from the Senior Night program - “Life is bigger than tennis, make sure to find ways to enjoy your life and the people around you.” He gets it, that it is the people that you’ll remember, the people that will make the memories, the people that you can give and receive from. He’s an amazing young man. I love you, man!

Verse: Romans 12
Love from the center of who you are; don’t fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply.

Senior Statement: Breece Erickson

Breece is a powerful force. Both in his tennis game and with the force of his emotion and encouragement during matches. With his big serve and quick volleying skills, he’s become a solid doubles player for us. This year, he actually translated that to a great singles game as well. During practice, he’s known for competing hard and trying to push for his best. In matches, you’ll often hear his exuberance with a “C’mon!” or “Let’s go!” ringing out for everyone to echo back. He is a player who wants to see the best and strives for it!

Over the years, this striving has led to some amazing accomplishments. As a JV doubles player, Breece had a record of 19-7 his freshman and sophomore year. And he’s bettered that as a varsity player, having a record of 20-6 in varsity doubles. Some of my favorite matches have been doubles duels lasting long into third sets, like this year’s Westview match which Breece and Cam won in two tiebreaks, or his match with Gideon against Fremont in the Bremen Invitational where they were able to secure a tiebreak victory. Last year, long victories over Fairfield or an amazing first set against state qualifiers from Westview come to mind.

But honestly, my favorite Breece memory of all comes from this year’s summer tennis camp. We were playing at Fremont and it was about 11:00 at night. Breece was playing with Gideon in an amazing match, that had gone into a tiebreak to decide it. They fought off two match points against them, and then pulled it out. Breece hit the final winning shot and then turned and hugged Gideon.

One thing that I talk to my team about all the time is “who do you turn to?” I encourage them to turn to God and turn to one another. Breece is a great example of a teammate who is constantly trying to turn toward his teammates. After our tough loss on Saturday, Breece wanted to make sure that we would go out to dinner so we had something to pick us all up. He was the first out again to hug or fist bump teammates who have had a tough loss. Breece’s character is to teach and care. That can be seen in his work with the grade school tennis players or his own teammates, and it is a gift of God. I appreciate Breece so much for this love and care. I love you man!

Verse: Romans 12
Fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he
wants from you, and quickly respond to it.

Senior Statement: Austin Shenk

Austin Shenk has been an important player for our tennis team. As a tennis player, Austin plays with a ton of spin and a good level of aggression, which makes him an outstanding doubles player. Over the course of his career, I’ve loved to witness the amount of times he’s driven a forehand down the line or smashed an overhead. In the past several years, he’s developed a great serve that now draws many errors from his opponents or sets Matthew up for some easy smashes.

Austin has also accomplished a lot as a tennis player. He has always been someone who works hard for good form, and really falling in love with the game his freshmen year and putting in a ton of good work since then. He broke into the varsity last year, posting a 13-4 record at #2D with Aaron, and really being one of the best doubles combos we’ve had at that spot. In fact, the 13 wins in his first varsity season ranks him fifth in Bethany history for wins in a first season.

Besides these records, Austin is a great team leader. While he has great skill, you would never hear him bragging about it. He is someone we all can learn from, but he does it humbly. Oh, he’ll yell out when he puts a smash down, but after matches he’s quick to praise his partner or his other teammates for their accomplishments as well. During practice or during the offseason, he’ll put in the most effort, but without drawing attention to himself. He leads in a way that makes space and celebrates others.

And I feel that is part of what makes Austin so special. He will be diligent, but does so with humility and curiosity about others. He longs to hear what others think, he evaluates their wisdom, and he learns and grows from it. There is a goodness about him, that is a fruit of the Spirit that I see in him. He has an inner virtue and morality that causes him to be graceful and thankful to others. His goodness and humble leadership will be something the team will miss as he moves on.

Verse: 1 Peter 5:6-7
So be content with who you are, and don’t put on airs. God’s strong hand is on you; he’ll promote you at the right time. Live carefree before God; he is most careful with you.

Senior Statement: Jacob Shank

Jacob is one of the most fun tennis players on the team to watch. This year, I’ve teased him that I need to keep my camera rolling on his matches all the time, because he often gives us the most “Instagram-able” moments. That’s because his combination of passion and aggressive play is just really enjoyable. The way he powers his forehands or whips his serve really set up points well.

And as a tennis player, Jacob has come a long way. He didn’t join the team until his sophomore year, after spending a year with soccer. But when he did join, he became an instant joy on the team. People have always loved to play with him. Combine that with his energetic and aggressive game style, and he’s been a mainstay at doubles for us. Each year, he’s continued to build his skills. This past year, I’ve been so impressed by the consistency that he’s brought to his forehand.

But perhaps the most important thing that Jacob has brought to the team is joy. Everybody loves to play tennis with Jacob. He is excitable, encouraging, and exudes joy to his doubles partners. He has been invaluable to our freshmen this year, showing them how tennis is supposed to be fun. He has increasingly kept a positive attitude and belief headed into each match, regrouping and going again. It has been inspiring to me. I have loved watching him challenge himself, seeing him work through frustrations, and still come out with a joy.

And because it is not just joy that he keeps to himself, it flows out of him as kindness. Joy directed toward others, shared with others. It is a fruit of God’s Spirit that I love to seeing flowing out of him. So often after practice, it’s Jacob who is still hanging around just laughing with a couple of his teammates. So often, even when he’s frustrated, it’s Jacob that will celebrate a teammate’s good shot in Team 105, one of our favorite practice games. Even when it is difficult, he’s faithful to his brothers with kindness and joy. Jacob is a friend, a great tennis player, and a wonderful role model for our team.

Verse: Proverbs 27:9
Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.

Senior Statement: Josiah Schlabach

Josiah is an intense competitor who also likes to have a lot of fun. In that way, I see him as a perfect fit on our team. He will get into any goofy game that I bring to practice, trying to compete for the win. He brings intensity too in the way he spins the tennis ball, both his heavy topspin and trademark backspin shot. This season too, he has proved really adept at the net. He’s a great competitor who really gives every point his all.

And it shows in the number of matches that he’s played that he has taken right down to the wire. Josiah is the king of close matches. Over his career he’s had 17 sets decided one or two games. That’s about half of the matches he’s played! And this year has been emblematic of that. Josiah competes so hard, he never believes he is out of it, often fighting back to force these close matches.

It’s these same personal characteristics that Josiah brings to our tennis team. He wants all the right things. He wants to work hard, he wants to pick the right shots, and he wants to compete at his highest level. Because of this desire, he pushes himself in competition and often plays his best in match competition. This desire is a true example and motivator to others. He is passionate in his pursuit of his best in a competition. But I also love the other sides of Josiah. He laughs often, sometimes for reasons that I can’t figure out, sometimes so much that he can’t stop. He loves to have fun, often challenging others to our favorite tennis games of Middle-Middle and Two Ball. And he is deeply loyal to his teammates, defending them and looking out for them.

And that is a fruit of God’s Spirit that I see in Josiah, his faithfulness. He takes his passion and his good desires and he directs them toward his faith, passionately holding on to belief in God. He takes his passion and competitiveness and stays faithful to the team and pushes us toward our goals. He continues to be a part of whatever is going on, because he is loyal to us. I am so thankful that we’ve got to know his good heart and see his desire to do things right.

Verse: Psalm 37:3-4

Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.

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.

Senior Statement: Matthew Dyck

Matthew is a really dedicated tennis player. Ever since his freshman year, he has had great strengths as a tennis player. He can crush his forehand. He has quick reflexes. He keeps great focus, striving to get better. I love that Matthew has been an inquisitive player, often seeking coach’s advice for some problem in his game. Throughout the summer, he was one who found time to play tennis, and it was fun to watch he and Austin start to form some chemistry in their doubles play together.

Through his tennis career, it was always uncertain whether he would be a singles player or a doubles player. He is very consistent, which favors singles - but has some aggressive tendencies, which favors doubles. He’s also been someone whose been draw into close matches throughout his career, which means he’s constantly challenging, pushing, and continuing to believe. This year, he’s had some really exciting matches - from the NorthWood victory, to some of he and Austin’s close defeats.

In all of his tennis, one thing that stands out to me about Matthew is that he is a great listener. We often have “walk and talks” before practice, where I will ask the guys a question and have them partner up and share their thoughts. Matthew is such a good listener, drawing others into sharing and processing their thoughts - about tennis or about life and faith. In my conversations with Matthew, he is eager to hear my perspective, whether that be about how to work at his backhand or some matter of life. It is easy to see, by the way that Matthew listens, that he cares. He cares about tennis, and he cares about people.

I can see God’s Spirit in him through the gentleness that he brings to each conversation. Even when in disagreement, or when he has a different opinion, he is not overbearing or angry. He continues to listen and then speaks with wisdom. I appreciate this about him, the way that he dissects tennis, sets goals, and pursues them - because he cares about getting better. But also the way that he cares about his teammates, his opponents, his coaches, all the people that he gets to share these courts with. We will miss Matthew’s presence on the team.

Verse: James 1:19-20
My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.

Senior Statement: Aaron Shenk

Aaron started his career as a Bethany tennis player as a happy-go-lucky JV player just looking to laugh. He’s always been quick to joke and smile. He’s been an easy-going player, someone who’s really easy to play doubles with. And over the four years with the Bruin tennis team, he has not lost any of those qualities.

What has grown is his intention. What has grown is his belief. In the past, he could be known to just have fun and not compete his hardest when matches were tough. But last year, I saw him developing endurance and perseverance in his JV matches. This year on varsity, it’s become he and Austin’s calling card. You can’t ever count them out.

Starting at the first varsity tournament of the season, when they were down 1-5 and forced the set to be extended to 7-5 before winning the second set easily, Aaron has shown the ability to keep his joy and belief even when times are difficult. He and Austin have come back and won third sets in many matches this year, or roared back to force tiebreaks after being down in the set. There’s also such a pure joy that Aaron displays when he is playing well, a joy that I remember all the way back to his freshman year when he would play with Kameron Branum.

It is a special gift to be able to believe you can turn it around and enjoy the process of doing it. So many people would rather sulk, but Aaron continues to enjoy each good shot. And when it all comes together, he is a powerful tennis player. And when he pours that joy out, in laughter or in exuberance, it lights up our whole team. When his joy is directed toward his teammates, and what they are doing... well, that’s when the best things start happening. He makes others believe in themselves as well.

That’s what I am excited about for Aaron as a person as well. He is creative and joyful in the world, and when he is focused on a project and believes in it, he brings such joy, energy and beauty into the world. I can’t wait to see his continued impact!

Verse: John 15:11
These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.

Senior Statement: Theo Siemens-Rhodes

Another hard worker of the Bethany team, Theo has put in great work to get to where he is on the team. Last year, he played #1 doubles on the JV for most of the year, and we would have guessed that he would slide into that spot on the varsity. Instead, he worked hard and earned a singles spot that he has been holding down most of the year.

Theo is a thinker. I often have told him this year that his best strengths are his head and his heart. He can figure out his opponent’s weaknesses, given time, and can find a way to exploit them. So many matches this year he has started out slow, only to find ways to compete as they went on. Which has been impressive, because I don’t think there has ever been a year where our #2S player has had to play so many players with #1S experience.

And yet, Theo has stayed patient and worked at it with effort and intelligence. That is so much of what Theo brings to our team, his patience. He stays calm despite desperately trying to figure things out. On the outside, he is quick witted and funny. He is often quick to make connections and try new things. That has made him really wonderful to coach. He is willing to dive into a new strategy and evaluate it, to see if it works and how it will bring success.

He’s done that for our team as well. I loved that earlier in the season, after a difficult defeat, he stopped me in the dark parking lot and asked if I would consider a new drill. He thought that it might help us. He wanted to try it out. We did, and it became a new favorite of the team.

I value Theo’s intelligence and honesty, and his ability to think through so many things - both on the tennis court and in life. He is reasonable, practical, and a joy to work with on this team.

Verse: 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21
Don’t treat wisdom with contempt, but test everything and hold on to what is good.

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.