On April 15, the JV girls tennis team played Class A Lincoln East in a dual. The JV team won 5-4 overall with sophomore tennis player McKenzie Dunn responsible for the tiebreak against East’s #3 single.
Dunn has played tennis for several years, and her efforts to improve don’t go unnoticed. Her constant need to be better is expressed through her playing style. Dunn is a role model to all of her teammates and keeps her composure no matter the outcome.
Freshman Nora Morgan works closely with Dunn during practice.
“I look up to her because she’s always kind and very approachable,” Morgan said.
During her match against Lincoln East, Dunn maintained a small lead over her opponent, fighting hard for every point. The girls tied at 6-6, leaving both players hopeful for the win.
When she first fell behind, Dunn put her head down and started playing more strategically. Point-by-point she worked her way back.
“McKenzie showed she is extremely clutch and won’t let anything bother her,” JV assistant coach Dillon Luke said. “She kept playing her game and it was really cool to watch because she won the match for us.”
Dunn won the tiebreak 7-5, keeping Elkhorn North just two points away from losing the overall duel.
As of right now Dunn is undefeated in singles. She works to continue improving her skills and learning new techniques.
“She’s always asking questions and wants to get better,” Luke said. “Just by learning different types of shots she’s maybe never used before, I’ve seen her grow so much in the last month.”