For senior Olivia McDonald, being named captain of the girls tennis team isn’t just a title—it’s an opportunity to lead by example during her final season.

“It means so much to me to be named tennis captain, especially [during] my senior year,” McDonald said. “I am so honored to be a captain and to serve as a role model for the other girls.”

As a first-time senior captain, McDonald has taken on the responsibility of shaping the team’s environment, making sure every player feels included and valued. She emphasizes that success isn’t just about wins, but about the way teammates support each other.

“A big part of helping to bring the team together is making sure that everyone feels welcomed and a part of the team,” she said. “It doesn’t matter your spot on the lineup—everyone is an essential part of the team.”

Over the past four years, McDonald has grown both as a player and a person. She credits her development to hard work, consistency, and learning from mistakes.

“Since freshman year, I have changed so much as a player,” she said. “I’ve learned how to hone my skills and gain confidence in the way I play. As cliché as it is, practice does make perfect, and the mistakes I make are going to help me improve in the long run.”

Stepping into a leadership role hasn’t come without its challenges. McDonald admits that there are moments when the pressure of being captain can feel overwhelming, especially during difficult matches. However, she sees those moments as opportunities to step up for her team.

“Sometimes I feel pressure being a senior captain, especially when the entire team is down,” she said. “I feel it is my responsibility to reassure the team and lift their spirits.”

Despite the pressure, McDonald says the experience has been overwhelmingly positive. She values the relationships she has built with her teammates and takes pride in being someone they can look up to.

“I really love the team and love being someone the girls can look up to,” she said. “It’s been such a positive experience.”

As her senior season comes to a close, McDonald hopes her impact will last beyond her time on the court. More than wins or stats, she wants to be remembered for the energy and attitude she brought to the team.

“I want my teammates to remember me for my kindness and positive attitude,” she said. “I hope that they will continue to smile, keep their heads up, and even have random conversations with their opponents [as] I do.”

Through her leadership, positivity, and dedication, McDonald is leaving behind more than just a season—she’s leaving a lasting example of what it means to be a true team captain.