The Milano Sisters are "Serving" at States
Recently the perfect doubles duo went undefeated at sectionals, making their way to districts for the second year in a row. These two girls are sisters and have been playing together since they were young, now they play side by side for our Girls’ Varsity Tennis team!
According to the NCAA, only 1.5% of girl's tennis players make it from playing in high school to playing NCAA Division I. Being able to reach a point where you are confidently able to play tennis can take time. Gracie Milano has been playing tennis for 11-12 years and started at about 5 or 6 years old. Kamy Milano has been playing for 9-10 years. ESPN published a very interesting article explaining rankings for sports on difficulty based on factors including endurance, speed, and power. Tennis was ranked the 7th hardest sport. To be able to play tennis, endurance is required. Matches run for multiple sets and being able to last and keep a steady playing pace is crucial to success.
Gracie and Kamy started playing doubles together last year, so it is a fairly new experience for them. When playing doubles, it can be difficult to find a rhythm and strategy with your partner since you are playing against two players with 2 different serves and different strokes. When Gracie was asked what makes her and Kamy so successful she said, “We work hard and practice a lot.” Communication and practice are key for playing doubles and having these skills has really paid off for the Milano Sisters.
At sectionals, Gracie and Kamy needed to win 3 matches to make it to the district tournament. After winning those 3, they won 2 more matches to win the sectional championship. From sectionals, 4 singles players and 4 doubles teams make it to districts. At the district tournament, Gracie and Kamy won both of their matches and are now a State Bound doubles team! These girls have accomplished so much playing together as they are one of only 16 doubles players that have made it to compete in the state tournament this year. Good luck to the Milano Sisters as they continue this adventure and take on states together!
Written by: Charlotte Varkala