By: Daniyal Habib <[email protected]>

Now that the men’s tennis team’s season is over, varsity player and junior Eric Murphy is ready to step up as a senior leader for next year.

“The seniors (next year) will have to step up and fill the leadership role that is their responsibility every year. They need to set examples for the underclassmen and be the hardest workers on the team. There will always be pressure, because the others will look to us for support and guidance,” Murphy said.

Carmel finished the season very strong, ending at fifth in the final regular-season coaches’ poll. The team lost in the Regional final. Their final record was 11-4, bringing their overall record for the past five years to 78-11.

“We exceeded everyone’s expectations, including our own,” Murphy said. “We worked really hard and gave it our all, and we are proud of that.”

Now that the season is over, Murphy and his teammates will look to practice and perfect their games in the off-season, in preparation for next year. “I plan to play tennis at least 3 times a week in the off-season, as well as some competitive tournaments throughout the year,” Murphy said.

While being the number two player on varsity is a big responsibility on the court, Murphy knows he will have to set an example with his conduct also. “As a senior, I will be expected to make sure everyone is working their hardest in practice, matches, and even outside of tennis. The seniors are responsible for pushing the teammates to be the best they can be, as well as keeping them all in line,” Murphy said.

Even though the team is losing four seniors, Murphy said he is very optimistic about next year, because of the young talent that the team has.

“We will definitely miss the seniors that we are losing, but hopefully we will be able to replace them next year. We have a plentiful stock of skilled underclassmen, and there’s no telling who will play what positions next year,” Murphy said.

“I have a very positive outlook on next year. Not only will we be successful, but it’s going to be a lot of fun, just as it has been for the last three seasons. I’m already looking forward to next year’s season, and this one just ended.”