Brower looks to repeat as state tennis champ

by Nick Lenz, Sports Anchor/Reporter
October 01, 2012 6:48 PM


To be an athlete in tennis, you usually start at a young age and it starts with a mentor.

Morgan Brower says, "My dad has played tennis his whole life and so he's been my coach since I started and he has taught me a lot."

And with the help of a high school coach.

Don Barnes says, "They're not just playing for themselves or me, they're playing for a tradition that O'Gorman has developed in tennis over the years."

Morgan Brower is only in her second year of high school. In 2011 as a freshman she took home a state title in singles as well in doubles.

Don Barnes says, "She's a competitor. It's kind of like boys and girls  sports you don't need to be six foot two and 200 punds. This is a skill sport."

There's pressure with Brower being ranked number one in singles and doubles with her partner Jenna Czarnecki again this year, but Brower knows that it's all about enjoying the sports as well.

Morgan Brower says, "You know, just perform the best I can. Make sure to keep it classy and have fun."

Don Barnes says, "She's still trying to get better. She's working on her serve trying to keep her head up through the ball a little bit better and she's also working on her volleys very hard to get a little more pop in the volley."

And for a young tennis player who has three years left of high school, has already won state and fighting to get back there, she remembers to keep it light.

Morgan Brower says, "Mostly just keep the pressure under control. Don't let the nerves get to you. Just remember that it's just a sport, you know, there's always the next days coming no matter what happens."

A champion looking to repeat.

Nick Lenz, KDLT Sports, Sioux Falls