Quick Q&A: Alexandra Kopiecki, Mounds View tennis

Mounds View junior Alexandra Kopiecki, No. 1 singles player, is coming off a 2014 season in which she took home the Class 2A singles consolation title. She's made trips to the state tournament for singles and with her team the past two years. This year, she hasn't dropped set in the first three weeks of the season.

Q: What's been working so well in your game so far?

A: I've been able to be more aggressive and take on the net more.

Q: How did you rebound from your quarterfinal loss at state last season to win the consolation title?

A: I don't know. I just practice a lot. I like to do … Pilates and yoga, and that really helps. This time around, I've been doing more weight training and running to help out with that.

Q: Greatest accomplishment on the tennis court?

A: I haven't lost any conference matches [in her tennis career]. Making it to state and winning sections was probably the biggest accomplishment besides getting fifth in state.

A: I want to win all my conference matches, and I want to win sections. ... I'd like for my team to go to state this year.

Q: What's your favorite tennis shot? Forehand, backhand, serve, volley? Maybe a combination?

A: Being able to hit my serve. Just because I start off the point, and I'm in complete control. I just love striking the ball.

Q: How does the Pilates and yoga in particular help you with your tennis game?

A: At one point, I didn't stretch at all, and that almost led to an injury. It's really increased my core strength and muscular endurance.

A: I'm the only child in my family of five kids to play tennis. I'm the youngest of five children. People usually think I'm an only child.