Ella Xing’s (12, MST) journey in tennis began in elementary school, not out of intense ambition, but as a simple way to spend her summers at camp. What started as a casual activity quickly turned into a lasting passion that carried her through middle school and into her final year at Manual.
“I first started playing in the summertime at tennis camp … Over the years, I just kept playing it and I really enjoyed it,” Xing said.
That early enjoyment eventually developed into a competitive drive. By middle school, she was already participating in competitive matches and discovering the aspects of tennis she loved most: the challenge, the strategy and the opportunity to push herself.
“I really enjoyed playing singles and doubles, so I knew at Manual I’d want to be on a team, playing competitively and practice with friends,” Xing said.
Although tennis is often seen as an individual sport, it has always been about more than individual performance for Xing. Much of her motivation and growth comes from watching her teammates’ dedication. Watching them persevere through difficult matches and maintain motivation inspired her to adopt the same mindset.
“My teammates are my greatest influence, they’re always motivated, and even if something bad happens, they step back up and give it their all,” Xing added.
Her growth has not only been about physical skill but mental toughness. In the past, Xing admits she would get stressed out during matches, letting small mistakes affect her overall performance. Over the years, she has learned to shift her focus, improving her mindset and resilience.
“When I first started, I would get really stressed, now I focus on staying positive. If I lose a point, I don’t let it get to me — I just keep trying,” Xing said.
That mental shift has been especially important in a sport where the pressure often falls on individual players. To manage that pressure, Xing focuses on staying present during matches rather than worrying about outcomes.
“Tennis is pretty individual,” Xing said. “When you mess up, it’s easy to be hard on yourself. Learning how to stay positive and keep going has been one of the most challenging parts.”
Now a senior, Xing has taken on a leadership role within the school’s team, emphasizing responsibilities both on and off the court. Leadership is not just about performances, it’s about supporting teammates in every moment.
“As a senior, you have to act as a role model, that means showing commitment, being there and setting an example for others,” Xing said.
Some of Xing’s most meaningful experiences in tennis have come off the court, in the connections she’s built with teammates. Shared during travel, team outings and casual activities have helped foster a sense of community and strengthened the bond among players, making her high school tennis experience about more than just matches.
“Honestly, some of my favorite moments are team bonding. Getting ice cream after practice or traveling together — those are the times we really got closer,” Xing said.
Looking ahead, Xing does not plan to pursue tennis professionally, but she knows the sport will remain an active and important part of her life.
“I’ll definitely keep playing recreationally, it’s such a fun sport and a great way to meet people,” Xing said.
As she prepares to graduate and leave the competitive courts behind her, Xing leaves younger players with advice grounded in her own experiences.
“Even if you’re the only one on the court, remember it’s still a team sport … It’s not over until it’s over, even when things seem difficult, you always have a chance to turn it around,” Xing said.
