Captains Corner: Tennis

The Varsity Tennis team is off to a great start this season. They've gone 3-0 in their first three matches including a win over Taft for only the third time in the last 30 years. We sat down with team captain Quinn Mullin '26 to get more details on their early success. 

How long have you been on the varsity tennis team?

"My dad played tennis, so I've been playing since I was about nine years old. I started getting more serious about it when I got to Avon. This is my third year here now and third year on the varsity team."

Why do you think you were appointed captain?

"Over my time here, I've had a lot of experience, learned from a lot of past captains. Observing their leadership styles has helped me a lot in developing my own leadership skills, and I think my teammates and coaches have recognized that."

What does the role of tennis captain entail?

"Tennis can be one of those sports where it can become overwhelming, so I do my best to keep kids excited, have everyone looking forward to the next match. Also, just in general, keeping an eye on everyone, from the players to the team managers, and making sure they're doing what they're supposed to do."

What do you think makes a good leader?

"One good trait to have is confidence. To be a good leader, your teammates have to look up to you. That means carrying yourself a certain way and to always be doing the right thing. I've found it also helps to bring a positive attitude to everything we do. It usually rubs off on the other guys."

How has the season gone so far?

"The season's gone really well so far. We took a team preseason trip during spring break, which we haven't done before. I feel like doing that was a great for team bonding. We all got a lot closer. Then, to begin the season with that win against Taft was a really good way to start. Founders League, and New England tennis overall, are so competitive. We'll need every win we can get if we want to make the postseason tournament."

Any goals or expectations for the season?

"The main goal is to make the playoffs. After getting some big wins already, it shows we have potential to be one of the top eight teams and qualify for the playoffs. It's important just to get better every day, but the end goal is to make that tournament."