Elizabeth Shirley is a senior at West Lauderdale as well as an avid tennis player. Shirley has been a varsity player on the tennis team since her sophomore year. She currently plays girl’s line one doubles with Katherine Bounds. She enjoys playing doubles because it is “much faster paced” than singles.
She began playing tennis when she was in 7th grade and quickly fell in love with the sport. Because she began playing later than most of her teammates, she originally felt that her late start was a crutch to her game. She also “didn’t think a random sport [she] joined would lead [her] to where [she] is now.”
Shirley’s teammates inspire and encourage her to be the best player she can be. She strives to “lead [her teammates] and also be a role model.”
Before matches, she tries to warm up earlier than the other players to be fully prepared to play. Her favorite memory from her time on the tennis team is going to the state tournament for the first time. Shirley’s best accomplishment from tennis is being chosen to become a Meridian Community College athlete.
After high school, Shirley plans to attend Meridian Community College where she will continue her tennis career.
