A member of the FCHS tennis team, 11th grader Lydiah Napier has only played tennis for one year, but is already dreaming of becoming a professional tennis player and possibly getting a scholarship.

“I started tennis because we did the Tennis Club [last] September and they told me I was really good. So I figured I would try it and I ended up making the team,” said Napier, who went on to win five matches last season.

Her favorite part of last season was the car rides to matches and the very close bond she developed with all of the girls on the team, especially French exchange student Yolaine Scolan. “Yolaine was my buddy. We had so much fun at practices and games and I was really sad when she went back to France,” said Napier.

Behind every great athlete is someone who encourages and cheers them on, and Napier’s is her mom. “My mom is my biggest supporter because when I get mad she tells me I can do it and not to give up,” said Napier. She said she loves her family over everything and is truly grateful for their support.

“Tennis has changed my life a lot. I have made tons of friends and it has kept me in shape,” said Napier, who hopes to play a key role on the tennis team again this year.