By Matt Browning
Alayna Alvarez, a tennis player at Wichita Northwest, was chosen as the Multisports Athlete of the Month for October. Alvarez was a state qualifier for the Grizzlies this season.
“One thing I have taken from this season so far is my loss against Kapaun Mt. Caramel,” Alvarez said. “We played three sets for about three hours and 15 minutes, but I couldn’t pull it out and finish. That really tore me down, but I know now what I can learn from it and what I really need to focus on.”
Alvarez played several tough matches this season, but mental perseverance was a big reason why she pulled through.
“My strength is my mental game,” Alvarez said. “Especially when I’m playing singles, my mental game has to be at its best. There were many times where I could’ve just given up during matches, but believing in myself and having a positive outlook pushed me through the tough games. This not only helps me, but my team as well because the positivity and motivation are contagious and when you see someone who believes in you, you start to believe in yourself and I will gladly pick up my teammates whenever they need it.”
There are many unknowns on her future, but Alvarez would like to play tennis or softball in college.
