Whatever It Takes

Dear Wonderful Fans,

I apologize for this delayed blog post but finals have gotten the better of me for the past week. Well, it has been a surreal couple of days since our amazing ACC tournament victory last weekend. I cannot describe in words just how happy we all are and how much this means to everyone. The professionalism and humble confidence with which everyone approached each match was admirable. I am especially proud of our four freshmen that have never been in that position before. The way that they battled and exuded energy definitely inspired us all to work harder and made the fight just as enjoyable as the victory.  As our season draws to an end with the NCAA tournament ahead of us, it inspires a time of reflection on the past year. A quote that Jamie introduced to us as the theme for the ACC tournament sums up this year’s DWT team better than anything I’d be able to come up with – “Whatever it Takes.”

First of all, I must once again mention our fab four freshmen— Annie, Trice, Monica T., and Ester-- and what they have done to transform DWT into more than just a winning tennis team. It is difficult to believe that it was less than a year ago that these girls joined the team. Additionally, I personally can’t believe that they are only freshmen. These girls have been willing to sacrifice so much throughout this year and have been a key driving force to our successes through their maturity, ambition and hard work. What makes this so astounding is the fact that freshmen naturally tend to enjoy (sometimes over- enjoy) the crazies of college years and have to be “watched” so that they don’t harm themselves or the team in the process. But these four, have been nothing but perfect with the professionalism aspect of our team values and have truly raised the level of our program to new heights.

Han and Big Ray have continued to epitomize hard work and commitment throughout the year. There are no harder workers than these two and I believe that they have driven our team to exceed expectations at every practice, Howser workout or lifting session. I cant remember one time where either of them had an excuse or a complaint about anything. Furthermore, they quietly go about fulfilling their roles with complete humbleness. They truly are role models on this team and make DWT a place where we can all grow as people in addition to improving our tennis.

Last but not least, Mary is an example that I’d use when talking about the characteristics of a perfect leader. Throughout this year, I think she has grown into a responsible, assertive and organized person who has led us at every step of the way. She has been the solid rock for our team by keeping the channels of communication open between the coaches and us. Her leadership and friendship means so much to everyone on the team and I’d definitely say that Duke tennis is lucky to have a person like her representing the program.

Throughout this year, we have been able to overcome personal and team obstacles and challenges to do what is best for the team and for the pursuit of our goals. No matter how hard they may have been, every girl has done her absolute best to put others in front of individual interests. Now, we’re busy doing whatever it takes to get through finals week and then we’re going to be doing whatever it takes to reach our ultimate goal of securing another NCAA championship title for the Duke program. It’s going to be a busy couple of weeks but we’re super excited to give it our all!

GO DUKE!

Yours in Tennis,

Monica Gorny and the rest of DWT