We are bringing back the Athlete of the Week for the 2022-2023 sports season and our first one of the year is sophomore tennis player Kaylie Clauson.
Clauson has been playing tennis from a very young age and has been a main contributor to the Pirates success so far this season. She has lost just one match this year for a 9-1 record, helping Crookston to a solid start, and has spent the majority of her time in the rotation in the #2 doubles slot. “I like doubles more than singles for sure and it’s always what I’ve played,” said Pirates sophomore Kaylie Clauson. “Singles just hasn’t been for me, and I like playing with a teammate and having someone there to cheer me on.”
Clauson recently did get an opportunity at the #4 singles spot and got a win there as well, showing she can play anywhere in the lineup. Clauson has played with multiple teammates already this season including fellow sophomore Addie Fee. Clauson and Fee played together at #2 doubles in the Crookston Pirate Booster Carla Johnson Memorial Tournament and won all three matches earning a first-place finish and helping the Pirates to a second-place finish as a team. Her only loss of the season came yesterday to a very solid Thief River Falls team, and it was in a third set tiebreak.
Coming off a State Tournament appearance a year ago, and with the quick start this year, Clauson says the chemistry is what makes this team different. “I would say this is a very special group because of how close we are and how we all route for each other,” said Clauson. “I think that helps us win matches because you know that you got teammates cheering for you from the other courts and giving you support.”
First started playing tennis – As soon as I could walk
What do you feel is the strongest part of your game – My forehand topspin shots
Part of your game that needs work – Serving
Favorite Tennis Courts away from Crookston – I like EGF’s courts
Do you have a pre-match ritual – I have to drink an energy drink before my matches
Favorite sport – Tennis
Favorite athlete – I just love watching tennis
Last movie you’ve seen – King Richard
Favorite TV show – Euphoria
Favorite food – Sushi
What music are you listening to – Hip Hop or Rap
You’re stranded on a deserted island and you can have ANY three people with you – Addie Fee, Macy Fee, and my mom.
Would you like to play tennis after high school – I would definitely love to play tennis somewhere in college.
