What first sparked your love for tennis, and how has the sport shaped who you are today?

Coach Welsh: "I grew up in a family of tennis players. My mom played for Miami University and then was a high school varsity coach, and my older brother is a very accomplished tennis player. Naturally, as a kid I decided to rebel and play soccer! It wasn't until high school when I realized how fun tennis is, and I was on our varsity team playing for my mom. My twin sister is also a tennis player, so playing doubles with her will always be a special memory. This sport has made me tougher mentally, and shown me that I am capable of overcoming hard moments on and off the court."

Who was a coach or mentor who had a big impact on your life, and why?

Coach Welsh: "My parents! My dad spent his career as a coach on the collegiate level, and is getting inducted into Otterbein University's Coaching Hall of Fame this Fall. My mom is also very accomplished in high school level coaching, with multiple of her athletes making it to the state tennis tournament. I feel so thankful that I've been able to learn from them, and following in their footsteps as a teacher and coach means so much to me."

What are you most excited about this season with the Fairfield girls tennis team?

Coach Welsh: "Of course I'm excited to get some wins!! But most excited to build a great team environment with the most incredible group of young women. They inspire me every single day."

What's one thing you hope every player takes away from being part of the program?

Coach Welsh: "That they are capable of overcoming any obstacles that they face. Mentality is so important in tennis, and I want to build up my team to know that they are strong, brave, and driven, and that they can and will be successful in anything they set their mind to. I also hope they understand that while losing is tough, it's a part of life and our mistakes can only make us better."

If you could play a doubles match with any professional tennis player—past or present—who would it be and why?

Coach Welsh: "Coco Gauff or Richard Gasquet. Coco would bring the high energy and Grand Slam winner experience. Richard Gasquet had one of the best one handed backhands in the game, so he would be able to hold it down on the backhand side for us."