Athlete of the Week: 'Hom' Court Advantage

senior Stephanie Hom resolved from her earliest playing days never to let anything get in the way of achieving her goals on the tennis court. That’s why her tireless work ethic has led to an unprecedented number of tournament wins at Algonquin - namely, the Division 1 State Tennis Finals against Wellesley in 2009. Since then, Hom has risen quickly through the state rankings and struck up a playing style that has been revered by the Northborough community.

In her last season with the Tomahawks, Hom is looking forward to ending her high school tennis career on a high note. “In the past, we’ve been a pretty successful team and I’m looking forward to working hard to continue our success,” Hom said. “We have a lot of depth on our team and a great willingness to put forth our best efforts to achieve the certain goals we set for ourselves.”

With all of the success that Hom has achieved so far, Northborough Patch learns more about her pivotal role as a singles player, and the ways in which she keeps herself busy outside of the sport.

Northborough Patch: As one of the top female tennis players in the state, do you think other girls are intimidated by you?
Stephanie Hom: No. I’ve met some of the other girls through other tennis experiences- clinics and tournaments- and I like to think that we all respect each other’s play equally.

NP: You’ve played in some compelling matches as a singles player. Is there one that stands out to you the most?
SH: My sophomore year, our team made it to the Division I State Tennis Finals where I played Abby Henry from Wellesley. The year before we had lost in the State Finals, so we were more than excited, but also felt a lot more pressure, the second time around. I felt that Abby and I were both at the top of our game. The match ended in three sets, and it turned out that my win was the third and final point Algonquin needed to clinch the Championship.

NP: At what point of a match do you look to be the aggressor?
SH: My coaches have helped me learn that when I look to be the aggressor early on in the match, I tend to have more success. When I’m making my shots, I gain more confidence in my play and feel as though I have more control over the match.

NP: When it comes down to it - is being mentally tough just as, if not, more important than physical stamina?
SH: I truly believe that being mentally tough is the most crucial aspect of playing tennis, and also the area of my game that has developed the most through my high school tennis career. My coaches have helped me to think through the low points in any particular match, rather than losing focus. Everything, from preparation before a match to execution during a match to closing out a match, relies on a player’s mental toughness and ability to bounce back after each point. I’ve gained a new perspective in regards to how I play my matches that I believe has enabled me to be successful.

NP: How do you keep yourself busy in school? 
SH: In addition to tennis, I also played volleyball at Algonquin with my sister. I had a lot of fun serving as a co-captain this past season. I am part of Algonquin’s chapter of the National Honor Society and also voluntarily tutor elementary students Spanish for the Spanish Club.

NP: What about in your spare time?
SH: In my spare time I like going out to eat. Not Your Average Joes is one of my favorites. I also like taking pictures and playing with my dog. I also really like to travel.

NP: Which professional tennis tournament is your favorite and why?
SH: I like the US Open, because when I was younger my family and I would make trip to New York for the event. I remember participating in Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day - getting autographs from professionals and watching matches. One time we ran into tennis players at the ESPN Zone restaurant in Times Square.

NP: What’s next for you in terms of tennis, after you graduate?
SH: I’m definitely excited to work with my fellow seniors this year for our last season together. In terms of after graduation, I’m considering trying out in college, but I’ve yet to commit to anywhere as of now. If not at the varsity level, participating in a club tennis team would also be a great way to meet new people and continue playing a sport I love.