Each year the $1,000 Hooked on Tennis Scholarship is awarded to one male and one female high school tennis player. Congratulations to this year’s winners:
Kylie Skepnek from Algonquin, Ill., played tennis all four years at Harry D. Jacobs High School earning several honors including the sportsmanship award, most valuable player award, and being selected team captain. Her high school team also qualified for the Illinois High School Athletic Association state tournament. Skepnek was named the Northwest Herald Tennis Player of the Year and Wendy’s High School Heisman school winner.
In addition to high school tennis, Skepnek competed in USTA tournaments and also the USTA Jr. Team Tennis program. Skepnek is a multi-sport athlete as she participated on her high school’s track and field team as well as competitive dance team. Outside of tennis, she is a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Club, and Activist Club.
Skepnek’s commitment to academics has resulted in a 3.95 GPA and being named an Illinois State Scholar. She plans to attend Carthage University in Kenosha, Wisc., this fall while playing on the college tennis team.
Zachary Beaschler from Ada, Ohio, played tennis all four years at Ada High School earning several honors including the most valuable player award, District champion and Conference champion. He also qualified for the Ohio High School Athletic Association state tournament in singles two straight years. In addition to high school tennis, Beaschler also participated in USTA tournaments and has a Northwestern Ohio Tennis Association No. 4 ranking in Boys’ 18 singles.
Beaschler is a multi-sport athlete as he participated on his high school’s swim team all four years, was named most valuable player, and qualified for state. Outside of tennis, he is active in his high school currently serving as Student Council President. Beaschler is also involved in the Language Club, Film Club, 4-H Club, and Aspirations.
Beaschler plans to attend Ohio Northern University in Ada, Ohio, this fall while playing on the college tennis team and pursuing a degree in business.
This scholarship was established in 2010 in conjunction with a donor with the goal of rewarding young players with funding to advance their education and tennis interests. Each year, a $1,000 award is presented to one male and one female junior tennis player from the Section.