Spring marks the beginning of a new sports season, offering students a great opportunity to engage in sports and showcase their skills. The sports available this season include tennis, softball, baseball, track and field, esports and golf. The beginning of this season looks different for every athlete, but despite this, Tualatin students are eager to get on the courts and fields. 

Junior Celine Gutierrez De Nova, who has been playing tennis since freshman year, shared her thoughts on the beginning of the season.

What inspires you to play tennis? 

“The reason why I play this sport is because my family has played it for many years. It all started when my mom played when she was 6 years old. Then my brother played in high school in this exact school. Them playing tennis gave me the inspiration to play, and ever since freshman year I’ve fallen in love with this sport.”

What personal goals have you set for this season? 

“Honestly, this season makes me nervous, but some things I want to work on are my serves for tennis because I didn’t really do so hot last year when it came to my serves. But this year I know I have the opportunity to become better and get back on the courts knowing I can do better.” 

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned from this sport? 

“The tennis community isn’t just about being good, but it’s also welcoming to beginners who want to try. It’s been hard for me to accept my personal setbacks but also my losses. I had a hard time being set back from losses, but over time I’ve come to realize that it is okay to lose. I’ve grown from those losses, and that’s how everyone else grows. We all learn from our own setbacks.”