Playing doubles in tennis has shown Olivia Williams the value of communication. Both on the court with her partner and in everyday life, communicating is a crucial skill she uses to achieve success.
Olivia is a sophomore at Altus High School. “I love representing the Altus Bulldogs and I take great pride in being an Altus Bulldog. I try to maintain a positive attitude while hoping to inspire younger athletes to do the same.”
Experiencing winning and losing with one another builds a bond among teammates. The best part of being on a team are “the friendships that develop between teammates,” she says. Going to the state tournament as a freshman will always be one of her favorite memories made with her team.
It was with a friend that Olivia discovered tennis. “My seventh-grade year I decided to try something new and play tennis with my friend Katie. That year I realized I really loved playing tennis and wanted to practice more and more,” she said. “It is important to develop my skills in every sport I play. I spend all my extra time practicing to make myself better.”
When it comes to professional athletes, Olivia admires Serena Williams. “Her love for the game is unmatched. Her desire to be the greatest that ever played is why I look up to her,” she said. Evyn Bull is the teammate Olivia admires because of her drive to be better and how encouraging she is to those around her. Olivia’s favorite teacher is Mrs. Story from sixth grade. “I loved being in her class.”
There is one person who inspires her the most. “My mother inspires me to push myself to do my best and be a better person. She helps to motivate me to never give up and if I fail or fall, to ALWAYS get back up.”
Olivia is thankful for the time and effort her coaches have given her. “I would like to thank all my coaches who have helped me the last four years, each one of them plays a special role in molding me into the player I am today. I am truly grateful for each one of them.”
Tennis is not the only sport you will see Olivia playing. She also loves playing volleyball and pickleball.