Mark Chuirazzi, a senior, was the captain of the Boys’ Tennis Team this past spring. He led them to the playoffs in a successful season.

What was it like being the captain of the tennis team?

It was fun because we basically just made it up.

Did you feel like you had to perform better because of this?

No, I think we all just tried to win our matches every time.

Do you have tennis practice every day?

No, we have matches most days and practice once or twice a week.

What do you do if there is bad weather out for practice? Where do you go to practice?

We will either reschedule the match or move indoors normally to a club called PTA.

Do you ever have tennis conditioning?

No, it would be done individually. People will do it to get better as a player.

Is there a difference between singles and doubles, other than the fact that there’s just one extra person?

Yes, there is a big difference. The strategy is completely different, and the court is bigger in doubles.

When did you start playing tennis?

In the middle of elementary school.

Have you ever taken tennis lessons?

Yes, I did pretty often when I was younger.

Do you know if a lot of people on the team have taken lessons as well?

Yes, I am pretty sure everyone has at some point.

What is your favorite part about playing tennis?

I like doubles the most.

Are there any requirements for the racket that you have to use in game? If so, what are they?

There are no requirements for the racket.

How important is technique in tennis?

It is very important because it dictates how you hit the ball.

Are you looking to play in college?

No, I am not looking to play in college.

What would you say is the best part of your game?

The best part of my game is volleying in doubles.

What would you say needs the most work in your game?

My backhand needs major improvement.

Have you ever seen a professional tennis match?

Yes, in New York for the US Open.

How long does the season last?

I believe this year we went from early March to the middle of May.

How did you game plan for upcoming matches?

Everyone on the team would basically focus on just playing their game in order to win.

What’s your biggest takeaway from NA tennis?

I like all the other kids I met over the four years of playing. I also really like the coach.

Where are you going from here?

I am going to Penn State, but I will not playing tennis there.