Seven years ago, tennis was just a hobby for freshman Zoe Katsavelis, but now she is ranked No. 351 in the country, second in Nebraska for high school freshmen and holds the No. 1 singles spot on the school’s varsity girls’ tennis team. However, for Katsavelis, the numbers aren’t what define her. It’s the feeling of stepping onto the court and competing in something she loves that keeps her coming back.
“Out on the court, I’m in my moment,” Katsavelis said.
She got into the sport after watching her parents play when she was 8 years old. Drawn in by their energy and love for the game, she picked up a racket and never looked back. Tennis just clicked for her.
“With tennis, I feel like I can show myself in a way my words can’t,” she said.
But Katsaveli’s growth in tennis didn’t happen overnight. She dedicated hours to the court, practicing with her parents or training at The Tennis Club and Soccer Center. Like many young players, she progressed step by step, starting with lower skills and building up from there through constant practice and dedication.
As her technique improved, so did her confidence, fueling her love for the sport. Although she didn’t have a permanent coach, she credits Chris Hubbard, now the head of The Tennis Club, as one of the key figures who helped shape her game. She also gives credit to her parents, who played a major role in her development. Whether it was early mornings at the gym or long hours on the court after school and on weekends, they were right there with her, supporting her growth every step of the way.
“I learned a lot just by being around people who loved the game like me,” Katsavelis said.
One of the defining moments in her tennis journey came in 2023 during a tournament in Oklahoma, where she was considered the underdog. Up against tough competition, she kept her composure, and she came out on top. This kind of experience reinforced her belief in herself and showed just how far her grit could take her.
That experience was just one of the many competitions for Katsavelis. Outside of school, she travels all over the Midwest and Southwest. From Arizona to South Dakota, she competes against some of the best players in her age group. With a multitude of trophies already to her name and many more likely on the horizon.
Now, in addition to playing in her own, she also plays for the school. Playing for the school has brought a refreshing change of pace for her. For the first time, Katsavelis wasn’t just playing for herself, she was part of something bigger. The shared victories, the support during matches, and the bond built through long practices gave her a sense of community she hadn’t experienced before. While she just plays singles, and for her, tennis is an individual sport, being surrounded by teammates who understand the game has made the journey even more meaningful.
“It’s different, that’s for sure, but also nice playing with a team where we can all connect over one thing,” Katsavelis said.
Katsavelis has been unstoppable this school season, holding a 22-match undefeated streak. Only three of her competitors have managed to win even two sets against her. With a growing list of victories and a clear goal of playing in college, she continues to push through with hard work and determination.
“She works extremely hard,” tennis Varsity Head Coach Matthias Mattley said. “She has a lot of talent, strong will, and determination to get stuff done.”
Her impact on the school’s team was immediate. As a freshman, Katsaavelis brought the same relentless drive she’d perfected through years of solo competition. Her work ethic and competitive spirit set the standard for the team. Undefeated in singles play so far this season, she’s contributed majorly to the team’s impressive 19-1 record and the many plaques. Her leadership, both on and off the court, continues to inspire her teammates as they work together toward even greater achievements.
“She’s such an amazing person on and off the court,” senior Avery Johnson said. “She has made us grow as a team with the way she pushes and challenges us.”
