Nora Newman ’28
Audrey Shaud ’28
Photo courtesy of @ea1785_athletics
As a four-year varsity player, co-captain Avery Morris ’26 has been a main contributor and leader on the tennis court from day one. Her commitment to the team, outstanding skill, and consistent effort have been evident over the years, and this season has been no different. From dominating at the number one singles spot to rallying the rest of the team, Morris’s presence elevates the entire program.
Morris began her tennis career at age four when she was introduced to the sport by her dad, and her love for the game continued throughout her elementary and middle school years. Morris’s passion ultimately led her to join the Episcopal Academy community her freshman year of high school and earned her a spot on the competitive varsity team that season.
Morris’s advanced and versatile skill set has been the driving force behind her success in her high school career. Teammate Elsa Holleran ’26 comments, “I’ve noticed that Avery has put in countless hours for her serve over the past couple of years, which makes her very good and sets a good example for the rest of the team.” Morris’s dedication to improving her skill set has certainly reflected on her teammates, as the tennis team has had remarkable success over the past few years.
Along with her dedication to improving her skills, Morris’s deep passion and understanding of the game have been other reasons for her success. Head Coach Whitaker Powell states, “I think her best quality is experience.” Morris explains how she improves her knowledge of the game, saying, “I feel like having a lot of experience has been a huge advantage and comes from me seeing so many different levels, whether it’s going to watch professional matches or being a coach for a little kid.”
Being a member of the broader tennis community is an important part of Morris’s career, and it reflects in her abilities as the team’s captain. Powell has gotten to know Morris very well during her four years at Episcopal, and so he confidently comments on her impact on and off the court. He explains, “I’ve seen a lot of different aspects of her, both during the season and then she’s worked for me the past two summers, so there’s also a tremendous work ethic and dedication there.” Morris’s commitment to the sport beyond her own game inspires people of all skill levels and is exactly what makes her a great captain. She’s a stand-out on the court, but she also creates a friendly, warm environment where all feel welcome.
Morris’s positive attitude and leadership abilities are equally vital on and off the court. “She uplifts her teammates with her energy and relatable mindset. She’s able to connect and relate to everyone on the team and make everyone feel safe and comfortable to contribute to the team’s culture,” states Co-captain Nora Bailer ’26. Morris’s consistent support of her teammates creates an environment where players are able to succeed.
Michael Whalen ’08, one of Morris’s coaches and academic advisor, also comments on her strength as a leader, “Her work ethic helps her lead by example, and that way she can inspire her peers to follow her lead and ultimately become good versions of themselves as well.” It is undeniable that Morris has made tremendous contributions to the tennis team not only in her athletic achievements, but through her setting a standard of hard work, positivity, and motivation.
Looking ahead, Avery is committed to playing tennis at Trinity College and is eager to take her career to the next level. “Playing at the collegiate level has been my goal for my whole life, so reaching it is really nice. I chose Trinity because of the academics, I love the coach, all the girls, and the campus is beautiful.” Her dedication to excellence has been evident throughout her time at Episcopal Academy. As she transitions to the next chapter of her tennis career, Avery’s work ethic and athleticism ensure she will strive at the collegiate level and leave a long-lasting impact of skill and leadership on the Episcopal Academy tennis program as a whole.
