Tennis Aves ace conditioning session
February 9, 2012 11:54 am | Filed Under: Athletics
CJ PENDERGAST, 10, and Brandon Peck, 10, try to dodge each other as the other tries to grab the flag hanging from his shirt. This is one of the various games and fitness-inducing activities that SHS tennis players participate in every Tues. and Thurs. “Not only does [going to conditioning] help our players stay in shape, but it’s a huge way to show your dedication,” said Coach Michael Teets. “It’s also a great opportunity for team bonding.” (Image Credit: Ana Barros)

It is 6:00 a.m. The whole Sycamore Community is waking up drowsily, some dragging themselves out of bed, others hitting the snooze button just one more time.

SHS’ tennis team, however, is already running to the beat of “Party Rock Anthem” and starting on their lunges.

Twice a week, on Tues. and Thurs., the Gregory Center gym is invariably filled with loud, heart-throbbing music to which players jump rope, do lunges, planks, wall-sits, and many more activities to start the morning off with an energetic spurt.

“Conditioning is a great way to work on your fitness while spending time with your firneds and teammates,” said Nanki Hura, 11.

While some see off-season conditioning as just another reason to sleep less than they already do, Coach Michael Teets insists that it is very profitable in the long-run.

“Not only does [going to conditioning] help our players stay in shape, but it’s a huge way to show your dedication,” said Teets. “It’s also a great opportunity for team bonding.”

However, this is not always enough to get already-sleep-deprived teenagers out of bed in the middle of the week. Therefore, Teets has devised a program to motivate his players to keep conditioning and playing in the off-season called Gold Club.

“Gold Club is an optional offseason program in which players earn points for taking lessons, clinics, playing in tournaments, getting A’s in class, attending conditioning, etc,” said Teets.

When it comes time for tryouts, Gold Club results from the off-season are very useful in deciding who makes Varsity and who does not, because it reflects the player’s overall dedication in the sport.

“I’m really glad I went to conditioning and participated in Gold Club last year because it made me a better player and motivated my coach to put me on Varsity,” said Nikita Tandon, 10.

Overall, this year’s conditioning has had a very successful turnout, as players constantly try to vie for the top position on their team.

As the boys’ season draws near, conditioning draws to a close. However, through the motivation brought on by Gold Club and their desire to rise to the top, it is clear that nothing will stop the Aves tennis players from slacking off.

“We have a fantastic core group of players right now. They are doing a great job of leading and I’m pumped for our future!” said Teets. “It’s an exciting time to be a part of SHS Tennis.”