Like a lot of freshmen who play for a varsity team, tennis player Hayden Swanson had a challenging first year. But this season, the junior was a standout for the Highlanders.
“I didn’t win a game until one of the last games of my freshman year. I kept my head up, though, and improved over time, and now I am solid,” Swanson said.
He started playing in eighth grade because of his uncle, and at first he played with his cousin, Madison Huber, a 2016 Baldwin graduate, who played on the Baldwin girls team.
“I thought it was super fun. I practiced with my cousin Madison and I became pretty good at it,” Swanson said.
Swanson has been a starter since he began his tenure on the tennis team. This season, Swanson played singles.
“I wanted to play singles this year because I like to rely on myself and learn what I did wrong,” Swanson said.
Even though Swanson chose to compete alone on the court, it’s the sense of camaraderie the team has fostered that encouraged him to stay with the team over the years.
“We would go out to eat a lot freshman year, and it made great memories. That environment made me want to keep on playing tennis throughout high school,” Swanson said.
Before high school, Swanson never thought about playing tennis, as his main sport was basketball.
“When I was a kid I played basketball,” Swanson said. “I wanted to play basketball in high school, but I grew to be 5’ 6’’, so I decided to play tennis.”
Senior Samuel Vogel recognizes the qualities that Swanson brings to the table even outside of the game.
“He’s a cool guy, a good player, and he keeps the mood light in the van even after losses,” Vogel said.
Senior Tarik Salih agreed.
“Hayden is definitely a good team player,” Salih said. “He encourages everyone else, and he’s funny, so he always brings positive energy wherever he goes.”
The boys tennis team had a big season, making the playoffs for the first time in years. The Highlanders lost in the first round, but Swanson recognizes the team’s achievement.
“We made the playoffs this year, which is the first time we have made it since I started playing,” Swanson said. “It is a really cool experience playing in the playoffs.”
With most of the team being seniors, boys tennis will certainly undergo a restructuring going into the next season.
“He could be a team captain next year since most of the seniors are graduating. He definitely has the experience,” Salih said.
