Freshman singles player Josie McConnell is still new to the Elk City High School tennis program, but she is already embracing the work and mentality it takes to compete.

She said tennis has reshaped how she thinks about competition and confidence. “Tennis has taught me mindset is one of your most important tools,” McConnell said. “In tennis, your opponent can tell if you don’t believe in yourself, or if you have confidence you are going to win by the warmup. From the first to the last point, your mind never shuts down. Positive or negative, your mindset can determine the final score of the match.”

McConnell credits former coach and teacher Denny Geno for shaping her leadership at a young age. “He taught me how to be a leader from a very young age,” she said. “Due to being my softball coach from 6U and up, he has taught me you can’t be perfect, but you can always try to be your best. One particular saying that has stuck with me from him is, ‘There is only one perfect man who has walked on this earth, and that is Jesus Christ.’”

Her biggest inspiration, she said, is her brother. “My brother, Wyatt McConnell, has always been an inspiration to me,” she said. “He has never doubted me no matter what. Due to him being a former high school athlete, he knows the amount of pressure and joy you get from playing sports. Wyatt has never failed to tell me what I need to hear in the moment, even if it’s hard to choke down.”

McConnell said she feels blessed by the teammates around her. “Due to having so many great teammates, I can’t pick one,” she said. “Getting to share the court with my current teammates has truly been a blessing. Everyone supports you and tries to help you no matter if it’s tennis, school, or life.”

Representing Elk City, she added, means a great deal. “Getting to represent Elk City Schools is one of the biggest honors I have ever received,” McConnell said. “The amount of support you receive from classmates, teachers, and community members is truly special. No matter if you are at practice, or competing for a state title, Elk City always shows how much you are appreciated.”

Her dad’s simple line has become a favorite piece of advice. “‘If you hit the ball hard enough, they can’t hit it back,’” she said, quoting her father, Joey McConnell.

“I haven’t competed with this team yet due to being a freshman, but I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for me,” McConnell said.