Connecticut Senior Brings Positive Attitude to the Court

“I have that same mentality playing high school tennis, but now that I’ve been recognized for being that kind of person, I strive to be better and will carry that into my senior season,” he said. “Having that attitude also means I have a lot of fun playing. I’m not as high strung and looking to win every single point, and that makes it a much more enjoyable experience for everyone.

Last summer, Shiek Syed tried his hand in something new – coaching. During his time at Rocky Hill, he gained valuable knowledge from his coaches as a student and as a volunteer teacher, guiding him in the right direction as a leader. He went on to teach 6 to 10-year-olds through Skyhawks, a national sports camp with a location in Rocky Hill, as a way to give back. 

“Coaching was a lot different than volunteering. It was continuous hours of working with kids and trying to nail down concepts while teaching them about teamwork, integrity and respect, but it was something I wanted to do to give back to a community that has done so much for me,” Shiek Syed said. “It’s been the great coaches through the years at Rocky Hill that have made me the person and player I am today, and I’d like to thank them for holding themselves to a high standard every time they step on court.”

This year, while Shiek Syed is still training, he has made school and enjoying his senior year a priority. He’s deep into the college process and should make a decision by March, just in time for his final high school tennis season. He hopes to study architecture and play club tennis in college.