McCook senior Brianna Watkins to play tennis at Fort Hays State

Tuesday, April 14, 2009
John J. Mesh/McCook Daily Gazette McCook High School senior Brianna Watkins signed a letter of intent Tuesday to play tennis at Fort Hays State University in Hays, Kan. Front row, from left: Wayne Watkins (father), Brianna Watkins and Lori Watkins (mother). Back: McCook tennis coach Matt Wiemers.

McCook High School senior Brianna Watkins signed a letter of intent Tuesday morning to play for the Fort Hays State University women's tennis team in Hays, Kan.

Watkins, who also played volleyball and basketball at MHS, said tennis was her sport of choice and Fort Hays was her first choice for college.

"I love the feeling that the pressure is off," said Watkins about signing day.

Watkins is a three-year letterwinner for the Bison. She posted a 10-10 record in singles her sophomore year and lost in the first round at the Nebraska Class B state tournament.

Last season, Watkins posted a 26-20 record in singles and lost in the third round at state.

This season, Watkins has been playing doubles. She and partner Jessica Jankovits have posted an 11-0 record entering today's home triangular at the Bison Courts against Ogallala and Holdrege. The meet starts at 2 p.m.

"I like doubles, but I like the control of singles," Watkins said. "We've been doing great (in doubles)."

McCook tennis coach Matt Wiemers said Watkins has been an asset to the Bison program.

"She has been a lot of fun to coach," Wiemers said. "Fort Hays State is getting a great student-athlete. She just made huge strides last year. She will be a tough one to replace. She's a great team player. She has room to blossom as a player.

"She needs to get to the net a little more. (Fort Hays) Coach (Brian) Flax teaches the girls to be aggressive. Brianna is a great all-around athlete."

Watkins, who has been playing tennis since she was in seventh grade, said Wiemers is a good teacher.

"He's taught me a lot," Watkins said. "Coach Wiemers has brought a lot of enjoyment to the sport."

Watkins, the daughter of Wayne and Lori Watkins, plans to be a pre-med major. Her father is a doctor of veterinary medicine.

I like working with people," Watkins said.

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