Athlete of the Week for Nov. 22: Kentwood

The Kent Reporter athletes of the week for the week of Nov. 22 are from Kentwood; Nick Greutman (Sr.) tennis, Rowan Parsons (Sr.) swimming.

What do you value in your sport or about your team?

Greutman: I value the mental game within the sport. You won’t always be on your A-game so your ability to win even when you aren’t playing your best or feeling your best is what makes a great player.

Rowan: Something I’ve always liked about swimming is that for the most part it is an individual sport, so it focuses a lot on your own personal growth. For me, my only true competitor was myself. Everything I put into the sport was to beat my times or push myself to try something new. However, even with everyone working towards different goals we would all support and push one another to do our best.

What have you learned from your sport that you can take with you throughout your life/future?

Greutman: I have learned patience. Each match is different and each players style varies. Sometimes players force you to be patient and hit a lot of shots waiting for an opportunity to win the point.

Rowan: Regular exercise is wonderful for your mental and physical health. Before the swim team I can’t say I was a very athletic person but now I see a lot of value in it. I always feel more motivated when I finish an hour or so of exercise because it gives you confidence. Now when I’m stressed, or I need a break from schoolwork I’ll go biking or I’ll walk my dogs, and I’ll feel better. This is a habit I hope to keep with me for the rest of my life.

What do you do when you aren’t motivated and what helps you stay motivated?

Greutman: When I need to stay motivated I picture my ideal outcome of the match, adjust my game, and make good shots to beat out my opponent.

Rowan: When I am not motivated I look to my teammates for inspiration. It’s easier to do your best when everyone else is also doing their best. Luckily for me I had some amazing girls on my team. To stay motivated I reevaluate. If one of my goals isn’t working out then I put a pin in the old one to come back to it later and try something new instead. This way I don’t get stuck with the feeling of failure and can gain some sense of accomplishment.

Do you have a favorite pre-game meal?

Greutman: Nerd Clusters

Rowan: I usually have a sandwich. Lettuce, tomato and bacon or ham. Or Peanut Butter and jelly. I always make sure I eat a good balance of food groups especially protein and carbs.

What advice would you give to a teammate that is struggling?

Greutman: If my teammate is struggling, I would tell them to focus on making smart shots and placing the ball better instead of trying to outhit the opponent with power.

Rowan: If you feel intimidated by the other girls and like you don’t belong on the team, my advice to you would be to not compare yourself, you don’t have to be the best on the team to contribute. If you work hard regardless of if you place first in a race people will appreciate your efforts. Everyone brings something to the team, no one is a weak link. Just have fun and do your best

From the sidelines:

Greutman: Nick is the first tennis player from Kentwood since covid to qualify for State. He’s had an exceptional season, finishing 2nd in our league tournament and 6th at districts. At districts he had to overcome two- 3 set matches including a 1-5 deficit in the deciding match. Nick demonstrated adaptability, grit, and perseverance with outstanding play to battle back win.

Rowan: Rowan is a workhorse balancing Running Start classes and Swim Team practice. She is a quiet leader on our team, always working hard at practice to improve her skills and get the most out of her time in the pool. At meetings, she challenges herself to try new things and puts forth a solid effort each time she competes. Rowan has been a mainstay on our team for the past 4 years.