By SCOTT METZ

Technique, agility, endurance, and strength are just some of the skills necessary to be a successful tennis player. For Rejoice Christian School sophomore Kaiya Dobson, being a Number One Singles player, such skills come naturally.

Kaiya accounts, “It has taken many hours of hard work and dedication to get where I am. There are days when you don’t want to practice, but you have to still work because that is the only way to improve.”

Just because a tennis player plays solo on a court, does not mean that they are a part of a team. In terms of teamwork, Kaiya stated, “I enjoy working with our whole team. Everyone is amazing and I am so thankful for them and what each of them brings to the team. We all have our place on the team and are evenly appreciated.”

When it comes to the highlight play of her tennis career thus far, Kaiya proclaimed, “The highlight moment of my career so far was making it to state as a freshman last year and making it to the second day of state.”

Faith and family play an important role in Kaiya’s life. Kaiya stated, “I am motivated by my family to do my best, but most importantly to do everything to my best ability to glorify God.”

In terms of who Kaiya’s role model is, Kaiya stated, “My biggest role model is my grandma. She is one of the strongest people I know, and she is always so kind. She has had many accomplishments in her life and I want to be like her throughout my whole life.”

As far as her favorite teacher, Kaiya reflected, “My second-grade teacher, Mrs. Mainprize, has had the biggest impact on my life. She sparked my love for learning and she is always so encouraging, even now.”

Off the tennis court, Kaiya is involved with Student Council and The National Honor Society at Rejoice Christian.