Focused on the Goal
J.W. Mitchell High School junior, Leonid Alexeyev, strengthened his game and earned the top spot on the team. By Ashley Hoskins Leonid (Leo) Alexeyev continues his third year on the J.W. Mitchell High School varsity tennis team as he finishes his junior year. He strives to further develop his athletic abilities during his regular season and on his own as well. Coach Dave Peterson nominated Alexeyev for the honor in March. “He is our #1 singles player, has a 12-0 match record, and has led the team to a 5-1 record so far this season,” Peterson said. With the help of his coach, Mr. Dave Peterson, Alexeyev cultivates a sense of community among teammates while working through previous injuries. “I’ve played tennis since I was six. It has always been my number one sport and it has impacted me positively throughout my life.
It’s given me an outlet to stay in shape and develop teamwork and competitive skills that I can apply in other parts of life. Most of my challenges in tennis I’ve had to overcome have come from injuries. My strong team has gotten me through them and our district chances due to getting hurt my freshman year. Sadly, I had a heel issue that forced me to take a few months off last year,” Alexeyev said. Tennis allowed Alexeyev to form close friendships with his teammates over the years by spending time together after school and going to team dinners following matches. Although tennis players compete individually and in double pairs, the team must mesh to cheer each other on and cohesively practice. “Throughout the season, the team creates strong bonds and we go out to eat
Ready to serve, Leonid Alexeyev spots where he wants his ball to land at an early match in the season. Photo by Joceyln Candiloro after games while hanging outside of tennis as well. The sport has impacted my tennis career by bringing more fun to the game and developing the chemistry necessary to compete as a team while progressing further in the season,” Alexeyev said. Alexeyev and his team-
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mates won a tiebreaker to secure a second-place spot at the district championships, which led them to advance to regionals for the first time in 15 years. Alexeyev continues to play tennis as he prepares for his senior year in hopes of having an even more successful season. MAY 2021 17
