By Timothy Leoncio

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The abilities and diligence of Junior Alyssa Tobita got her to the girls United States Tennis Association (USTA) tennis championships in San Diego, CA, this August. After winning the state competition for a second year in a row, Tobita played two matches to finish in the second round of the national competition.

“She is successful because of all the extra hard work she puts into the game,” said Varsity tennis teammate Sophomore Mikah Sato, continuing, “She puts everything she has into the match at play but when she’s not playing, she’s conditioning on her own to improve her physical capabilities.”

Tobita’s hard work lead to the event itself and was a good opportunity for her to showcase her skills. “It was a really big tournament and there were a lot of the top players. I was proud of what I did … because I got to show my game off,” said Tobita.

This type of talent and skill is also duly noted by her coaches and trainers. Alex Aybar, one of Tobita’s personal trainers said, “She has a lot of great things going for her, not only mentally, but also physically.”

The USTA tournament itself also opened doors for future educational options. “It made me feel like I could actually get into the college I want to go to,” said Tobita, continuing, “Before I thought that the college I wanted to get into was going to be too tough, or I wouldn’t be chosen, but now I feel like I actually have a chance.”

Through her accomplishments in tennis, Tobita had inspired others as well. “I would definitely like to be like her,” said Sato, continuing, “She’s a very hardworking person that always tries and never gives up.”

Tobita also impressed her mentors by the way she played. “She’s a warrior. She likes the heat of the match,” said Aybar, continuing, “She’s one of the players that enjoys playing.”

Tobita continues to challenge herself in tennis, defend her state title and push to accomplish more than she ever has before with the help of those around her.