Duncan High School freshman Gracie Thiebaud’s tennis career is already off to a hot start. This year, she’s playing No. 2 doubles on varsity with teammate Emerson Villigrana.

“It’s going really well,” Thiebaud said. “I love being a part of the team!”

Thiebaud first started going to tennis camps in the second grade.

“Coach Barnes talked me into it, and I’ve loved going to it ever since! I was about 8 years old when I started doing summer drills with coach Cobble,” Thiebaud said. “My first inspirations to play were coach Barnes and Mrs. Halleran, my first-grade teacher who also played tennis, and throughout the years, the Cobbles have inspired me.”

Thiebaud’s relationship with her coaches today could hardly be better. 

“I respect how they go above and beyond to help me as well as all my teammates be the best people we can be on and off the tennis courts,” Thiebaud said.

This year, Thiebaud aims to accomplish big goals with the help of the Duncan coaching staff.

“My goals this year are to make the state podium and to improve my serve,” Thiebaud said.

For her career, she’s dreaming even bigger. She still has three years to take her game to new levels.

“I would like to continue to improve all areas of my game and help my team to a state championship,” Thiebaud said.

Thiebaud displays rare foresight for such a young player, but she has always aimed to be her best. Also a rare trait for somebody her age, Gracie has a passion for service leadership.

“I enjoy volunteering at Love Sick Ministries here in Duncan. It’s a non-profit where people in the community can donate things from clothes, household items and food,” Thiebaud said. “Anyone in the community can come shop for free. I help with organizing all the items. I love any opportunity to help those in need!”

It goes without saying the community of Duncan should be cheering on one of its most outstanding young teens in her future endeavors.