Every team has definable characteristics. And, in most cases, teams have strong bonds between its members, coupled with a sense of unity that has the ability to lift the spirits of its members during the most difficult times.
And that’s important because every team will face difficult situations, which all require adaptations. But perhaps the most important aspect of facing challenges is found within the team itself.
The North Central College women’s tennis team is a close-knit group of athletes who are no strangers to facing adversity. Ryan Jump, head coach of the women’s tennis team, and his group of athletes found themselves facing adversity against Elmhurst College — one in which they would need to dig deep and come together as a team.
“We were down 4-1 and we came back to win the next four [matches]. It brought an overwhelming sense of confidence. They got a taste of what they can be when they’re at their best,” said Jump.
Unity and strength are important dynamics for teams while on the tennis court, but perhaps even more important is how a team interacts with one another away from their area of competition.
Isriz Balase, graduate assistant women’s tennis coach, agreed with Jump when he described the team as an “energetic bunch.”
“We’re a balanced team. We know how and when to have fun,” said Balase.
The Cardinals have the strength, unity, and bond between its members that are crucial to team success. Aside from helping each athlete grow as a person, there are goals to grow the program into something special.
“This program can reach exponential growths that haven’t been experienced with tennis programs at North Central,” said Jump.
Based on the foundation they have in place, they just might reach their goal a little sooner than expected.
