The Donoho girls tennis team competed in Montgomery for two days of intense competition. After the first day of competition, all nine spots in the Falcon’s lineup remained undefeated. At the end of day two, the team finished second in the state for the second year in a row and also received two individual titles. Freshman No. 6 singles Anne Marie Harris and No. 1 doubles team of Claire Hillman and Lily Grace Draper won individual state crowns. The Calhoun Journal had the opportunity to speak to Lily Grace Draper and Anna Marie Harris and their families.
Anne Marie explained that she worked hard this whole year and is very proud of the accomplishments. She spoke of how thankful to have this opportunity and to have a coach that is such an inspiration. This was the first year that Miss Harris has played for the team. She is the youngest member and is excited to come back next year with the full team intact. Her father, Braxton Harris, discussed how Anne Marie has taken lessons and participated in clinics since she was young. He said he knew she had the skills, but was so proud and impressed with how she played. He was also happy with the support and direction that was provided by Coach Alderman. He also mentioned this was a huge win for his family. “Losing my father a little more than a year ago we, our family, needed this. We know he is smiling so big from above!” We also spoke with Anne Marie’s grandmother, Anniston Councilwoman Millie Harris, “I am just thrilled that Anne Marie is pursuing a lifetime sport. I am biased, but so proud of her. She’s very sweet and works so hard. She’s kind to others, and that’s what matters most to me.”
Lily Grace Draper was also excited about the opportunity to compete at State, yet when asked how she was feeling she didn’t talk about herself rather about how amazing her team was and how all the accomplishments were because of the great leadership of their coach. She went on to talk about the bond the team has and how they are truly friends. Her mother, Wendy Draper, was extremely proud and wanted to acknowledge that Lily Grace has always been a natural athlete, but she also is hard worker and sweet and kind. She also mentioned that she has always been humble and coachable.
Coach Kristie Alderman said she was so proud of all the girls. She also stated this group of kids, boys and girls, is the best she has ever had the pleasure of working with. She shared that they are all so kind and supportive of each other.
