Twins Take Tennis to Next Level

When the Plachy twins first started playing Zoo Tennis at the former Lincoln Racquet Club at 6-years-old, they wouldn’t know until years later how much the sport would impact their lives. Clare and Joe are both seniors at Lincoln Pius X High School and both will be playing Division II college tennis in the fall - Clare at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, and Joe at Augustana University in Sioux Falls. Both said tennis pro Rich Halpine of Genesis Racquet Club is their role model.

“He is an inspiration with all his life experiences through the game of tennis,” Clare said. “He was so fun to be around and taught me the fundamentals that have stayed with me for my whole tennis career thus far.”

Both Clare and Joe took part in many sports, but around 12-years-old decided to focus on tennis. It was a decision neither would regret.

“I have always enjoyed playing many sports, but tennis became my favorite and most important sport around the age of 12, when I started playing USTA tournaments,” Joe said.

“In 7th grade, I decided tennis was going to be the only sport I wanted to focus on,” Clare added. “It was a hard decision because I really enjoyed club volleyball, but I am very happy with my decision. It helped me become a better player and dedicate more time to the sport I love.”

Both enjoy the mental and physical challenges of the game, but their favorite part is meeting a variety of people at tournaments, lessons and team tennis.

“My favorite thing about playing tennis is the feeling of hitting the ball and how satisfying it can be when I play a point well,” Joe said. “I also love how I’ve been able to meet many great people from going to many tournaments over the years.”

“I like the hard work and mental stress of a good match,” Clare said. “It makes me a better player and it also tells me what I need to work on to get better. I also enjoyed all the people that are involved in the game of tennis.”

Fast-forward to senior year and Joe finished up his last year of high school placing sixth in the state at No. 1 singles. Clare will also play in the top slot this spring and has high hopes for the season, after missing out on her junior year of tennis because of COVID-19.

“My goal this season is to have fun and motivate my team to be the best we can be together. Individually, I want to play to the best of my ability at state are try to win at No. 1 singles and have a good time doing so.”

 Clare said the best part about having her twin brother play tennis? Having a built-in partner over the years.

 “I will be able to play with Joseph until we grow old,” she added. 

Congratulations to all the junior players in Nebraska who signed to play tennis at the next level. Have a story idea for us? Reach out to us at communications@movalley.usta.com and let us know.