By Derrick Smith

There are times when athletes, no matter the level of competition, have their abilities doubted. It could be by fans, their opponents, or sometimes even themselves. But no matter what people think, you just have to prove them wrong. That is just what Union High School tennis player, Courtney Moyer did.

“I was not expected to place at State when I was a sophomore,” the senior said. “Instead, I fought hard and had two very close back to back matches, each lasting three hours and I won both. I ended up placing sixth. It was my first experience of state and gave me a fire to succeed in the following years.”

Union girls tennis coach, Tyler Ashley, says that Moyer is a true asset to his tennis program.

“Courtney is a leader in every sense of the word,” he said. “She holds herself to the highest standards on and off the court. She is an inspiration to her teammates, coaches, and all who have the privilege of knowing her.”

The player that she has become would not have been possible if Moyer was not willing to put in the work to achieve it.

“I have put in many hours of practice at school,” she stated. “But I also went to a private drill group outside of school and put in extra hours. In the summer, I played in tournaments outside of school since school tennis was over.”

While all of her work was important, Courtney says that her coach also played a big role in her development as a tennis player.

“Coach Ashley has had an enormous influence on my life,” she said. “He also saw my potential to become a varsity player and a leader to the team before I saw it and has always pushed me to be my best. Another huge influence on my life has been my twin brother Alex. He has always been there to support me and has been someone who I can depend on and trust with anything.”

Moyer is also a member of the National Honor Society and the Athletic Leadership Council.