COLLEGE STATION:  The Varsity Tennis team was recently recognized by the United States Tennis Association (USTA) and the Texas Tennis Coaches Association at the TTCA Private School State Team Tennis Championships.  The Cardinals were awarded the Private School State Team Tennis Sportsmanship Award following their play on March 4th and 5th.  The school was presented with the USTA Sportsmanship Award Letter on March 21st, addressed to school Superintendent Matthew Vereecke,  President Chad Evans, Principal Marlene Hammerle, Athletic Director George Teague, and Head Coach Sally Frame.  

"We are proud to recognize John Paul II High School for their outstanding demonstration of sportsmanship during the 2022 Private School State Team Tennis Championships," said Van Barry, Executive Director of USTA Texas.  "John Paul II embodied the ideals and values that we love to see on the tennis court: enthusiasm, compassion, fair-mindedness, and positivity."

"This recognition is part of an initiative in collaboration with the Texas Tennis Coaches Association TTCA to acknowledge young players who exude a commitment to sportsmanship, Barry continued.  "These players were selected for recognition by the USTA Officials supervising play.  John Paul II represented their school, families, and community at the highest level. Their leadership, approach, and character throughout the competition set a remarkable standard and model for all in sports to follow."

"The mission of USTA Texas is to promote and develop the growth of tennis in Texas, and sportsmanship is essential to our success. Although we encourage a competitive atmosphere, we are also committed to shaping young players and fostering the development of tomorrow's leaders.  Congratulations again to John Paul II High School for their outstanding effort and for always respecting the spirit of the game. We hope that you are all filled with immense pride as you reflect on this great achievement. Just like the late Arthur Ashe once said, 'You are never really playing an opponent. You are playing yourself, your own highest standards, and when you reach your limits, that is real joy.'"

Head Coach Sally Frame spoke about the award and her team at length.  "This is a really big deal for us, and to receive the Sportsmanship Award in our first time at the TTCA tournament just shows how great our kids are on and off the court.  We played some really quality competition from all over the state, won some, lost some, but our players maintained great attitudes throughout the weekend.  I am just really proud of them, they were gracious the whole time and clearly understood what a privilege it was to be here as a team.  We are very much looking forward to returning next year and competing again."