Stillwater tennis captain Natalie Phippen briefly put the racquet down to talk about her life on the court.First tennis memory: I would always watch my mom and dad play and sometimes I'd have to wait for hours until they would be done. But when they finished, my mom would always hit with me. I would look forward to it every time.
How important is tennis? Pretty important. I wouldn't say it's my whole life, but I definitely enjoy the game.
Something you couldn't compete without: I found a couple of four-leaf clovers in the beginning of [last] year and I would always put one in my sock before a match.
To get prepared for a match: I eat pasta the night before, drink about eight bottles of water throughout the day and think about strategy. I see myself hitting my forehand, backhand, serve, etc. I think about how I'm going to win.
Getting away from tennis: I try to spend as much time as I can with my friends because I like my social life as well.
One tennis do-over: At sections last year, I lost my true-second match in a three-setter. I wish I would have been more prepared and played better.
One small tip before a big match: Don't get nervous. It ruins your game.
On your mind before a big match: Keep the ball in play and hit deep. And your SERVE is the most important shot of your game.
What team really motivates you? Mounds View, because they're always pretty good.
The best part about high school sports? The competition, the motivation, the competitiveness, the drive, the nervousness, the adrenaline. ... all of it. I love it.
JIM PAULSEN
