Pasha Farmanara, Web Co-Editor-in-Chief
Being a student athlete is not easy. Having to manage AP classes, sports, and a competent social life is almost impossible. Students get home from away games as late as 7:30, with hours of homework awaiting them. It seems like a daunting, almost impossible task, but varsity tennis captain Drew Freeman manages to stay successful.
Drew is the team’s number one player, and is currently 16-6 in his individual matches. He is the leader of the tennis team, and he is enjoying the role.
“It feels great to finally be the leader of the tennis team. I like that the younger kids look up to me and I know I have to set a good example for them,” Freeman said.
Teammate Ethan Kunin also feels like Freeman is a great role model for younger players.
“Drew’s work ethic is really impressive. He plays every day and is always the last guy to leave practice. His experience is also a big key to his game,” said Kunin.
Teammate Matthew Dubin also thinks Freeman is a great leader.
“Drew comes out and his leads by example and gives the team his all, inspiring everyone to try their hardest,” said Varsity player Matthew Dubin.
Freeman has been playing tennis for as long as he can remember, and started playing at Hillcrest Country Club.
“I was introduced to tennis by my family at a very young age and always loved playing the game,” Freeman said.
Freeman has been playing competitively, even before he became a Norman. Freeman is a USTA member, and plays junior tournaments all around Southern California.
Although Freeman excelled in many sports in middle school, Freeman felt that tennis felt like the right sport for him.
“I like the competitive aspect, how it is an individual sport, and the feeling of winning matches after working very hard. Also, the feeling of hitting the right shot at the right time perfectly makes me want to keep playing,” Freeman said.
Freeman has set high goals for himself this year, and with only 3 games left this season, he is on his way to completing them.
“My goals for this season are to make the CIF Individuals tournament at the end of the season, keep a winning record individually, and help my team make it far in the CIF tournament,” Freeman said.