In the year of 2010, like a resurrected prophet, TAS IASAS tennis athlete’s success in Jakarta brought memories that seem almost ancient in TAS IASAS history. The last time boy’s tennis placed first was in 1994, a year that is as old as underclassmen members on the team. In addition, the girls team placed first in their division as well. “Winning double gold, TAS tennis has proven itself after all these years.” Said Kevin K. (10).
Jakarta International School hosted 2010 tennis IASAS. Coincidently, it was at JIS where the boys tennis team first won first place. After that a large gap of 14 years happened where neither the boys nor the girls team medaled. Not until 2009, did the boys and girls team earn third and second is their division, finally breaking the losing streak. This year was especially significant for the girls team as it was the first year that they placed first TAS IASAS girl’s tennis.
Like most second season sports, a season of intense training is required for good performances during IASAS. Players not only had to compete with their teammates to earn spots as players on the team, but had to train for their own good. “Even if I didn’t make IASAS, I know that training for it will only benefit me in positive ways,” said Kevin C. (11)
During IASAS, players had to endure the different weather climate of Jakarta. Instead the cold Taiwan chill, athletes faced a summer time temperature along with common afternoon rain showers. This weather affected the players physically and mentally. “The weather was so hot and humid, It really affected my play, I could feel my energy draining out of me,” said Becky L. (12) Even so, both the boys team and the girls team managed to take control of their matches and best out the tournament.
All in all, a season of sweat and blisters has come to an end. The efforts of the tennis players can be seen in the placing they had in the overall tournament, double gold. “…I guess we can say hard work does pay off after all.” said Stephanie P. (10)
