A trio of Manitowoc Lincoln tennis players will begin their state title bids today in Madison.
Jordin Popp is competing as a singles player, while Taylor Peterson and Zylia Kleinfeldt are in the doubles bracket.
This is Jordin’s second time making it to the state tournament despite only playing the sport for three years.
“I never thought I would have made it to state, and especially last year I got a special qualifier,” she explained. “So this year winning first round of sectionals means a lot to me.”
The key to her success, in her words, is being consistent and having a good mentality.
As for Peterson and Kleinfeldt, they made the trip to Nielsen Tennis Stadium last year, but they believe they are even better this year.
Zylia said a big reason for that is that they have “worked with different coaches to kind of get different perspectives on our game and just to help us become like better players overall.”
With this being Zylia’s final season as a Shipbuilder, she tells Seehafer News that she plans on trying to keep a positive mindset, and communicating well with her partner.
Taylor agreed, but also said she looks to help Zylia write the final pages of her high school story with a good ending.
“With it being Zylia’s senior year, I just want us to have a good weekend and a good last couple of games for her,” she said.
Coach Stephanie Henschell says the key for her players is to take a deep breath and relax.
“We’re just taking it one step at a time,” she explained. “Jordin does have a winnable match, so I’m just hoping to see her play some good points to keep the ball in play. For the double team of Zylia and Taylor, I’m looking forward to seeing them pushing towards the net, stepping in. I want all of them to do their best and put their best effort out.
Jordin is set to face off against Notre Dame’s Mia Miller at 12:15 this afternoon, while Taylor and Zylia will hit the court at 1:30 p.m. as they face Nora Lonergan and Ellie Kortendick of Oak Creek.
