More than just a sport

SEATTLE -The O’Dea Fighting Irish tennis team has had an interesting year, finishing the regular season of nine losses. This is clearly not a great record, but the bond between these players has grown stronger, and they have simply enjoyed their time together. And with the change in the coaching position this year has been a year of change and sometimes changes out of the ordinary.    

"After practice, we would all go out for dinner as a team and sometimes go swimming in the lake," junior varsity tennis player Phineas Peterson said.   

This has enabled others to experience the joy of sports beyond simply winning. Working hard with teammates and taking time after practice to celebrate and reflect on the hard work that each player has put in. 

"During the summer, the entire team met up two or three times to connect and play some friendly matches to help each other stay ready for the season," Peterson stated.   

Because of team chemistry, the atmosphere and energy at practice have been positive and calm, creating a welcoming environment for all. However, some players stood out on the court. Peterson is joined by junior Joseph Stair, team captain senior Oscar Osten, and first-year student Eli Heckinger. These have been standout performers, with Peterson leading the pack in Metros for singles. 

Metros start on May 2nd, 2025. Peterson, Stair, and Heckinger were all able to make it through to represent O'Dea in Metros, where if they win this would be a huge victory for the fighting Irish, and hopefully they'll be able to pull it off.   

"Our coach is a great lady who has brought so many innovative ideas," Peterson stated.

Jennifer Wood is the Irish team's new head coach, and she has introduced many new ideas to O'Dea Tennis. It assigns spirit animals to players, like Peterson, who has a howler monkey spirit animal because of his loud voice and presence on the court.    

Overall, the tennis team has had a transitional year, and while they have not been successful, these players will remember it.