We are honored to present this issue's Senior Standout, Maria Canizales. Canizales has been ranked No. 970 overall in the nation and is ranked 17th in the Southwest by the United States Tennis Association. Congratulations!!!
Sport: Tennis
Grade: Senior
GPA: 3.3
Years Playing: 3 1/2
What do you love about the game?
"I love that it is an individual sport and it's all up to me to win. You have the chance to manipulate your opponent and make them play your game, instead of theirs."
What keeps you going?
"My desire goes beyond what people expect from me. Being able to play with and beat girls who have been playing for much longer than I have is a big motivator."
Tennis is a sport that requires a lot of thinking. You have to think and always strive to keep control of the match. You have to focus entirely on where you want the ball to go and what you're going to do next when you get it there. The biggest part of tennis, though, is heart. Every single point is a battle that you've got to win!"