When junior Jessica Komperda walks down the hallways of Oak Lawn Community High School or down the sidewalks of Oak Lawn, people may notice she is wearing a wristband. The wristband represents much more than a fashion statement--it is in fact a way of life. The wristband reads “Perseverance,” and she has earned the right to wear it and hold that title.
Komperda showed great perseverance last Tuesday in a victory at number-two singles in sweltering heat at the Reavis courts by taking her opponent to a steamy third set tiebreaker. It was impressive to see such determination on the court in less-than-ideal playing conditions.
“Jessica has shown not only improved crispness and pace in her groundstrokes this year, but, more importantly, has shown improvement in the mental game of tennis,” head tennis coach Dan Doyle said. “She has shown improved patience in her court strategy that forces her opponents into unforced errors. Jessica has always been a stalwart of a teammate while nailing down the number-2 singles slot for the team.”