Oswego East Student-Athlete of the Week-Lilli Price

Oswego IL

24 September, 2021

9:57 AM

Description

Tennis can be an emotionally draining game. There is a constant back and forth of scores, missed opportunities, big saves, and dramatic plays mean every athlete who steps on the court must be mentally tough. Senior Lilli Price has been that for the Wolves, and more, which is why she is this week's Oswego East student-athlete of the week. Cheerleading was Lilli's main focus through grade school and junior high, but in 8th grade, she made a decision to become competitive in tennis. "At the end of 8th grade Lilli was ready for a change," says her mother, Jodi Price. She goes on to add, "She started lessons at Five Star Tennis along with some match play to prepare for tryouts. Her dad played Varsity tennis in high school, so as parents we were both very excited to see her follow in his footsteps. Tennis is a lifelong sport that we all share and love." Lilli is reminded of her father on the court every time she plays, carrying a towel that used to be his, and says, "Love means nothing to a tennis player." Lilli's hard work in tennis has paid off this season as she, along with fellow senior Caitlin Carmody, were named co-captains of the team. But tennis, and OE, have also given back to Lilli. "During Lilli's 4 years at OE, we have loved watching her confidence grow," says Jodi. She goes on to say, "Tennis is a mental game as much as it is a physical game. It can be very challenging to overcome setbacks during a game just as in life, but Lilli has learned that her struggles are what creates growth and make the wins so much sweeter." Lilli credits her coaches, parents, and her faith for her ability to rise above the mental and physical challenges of tennis. Head coach Peter Conrad has had a front-row seat to Lilli becoming an integral part of the program's success, saying, "Over the past four years, Lilli has been a dedicated member of the tennis team and is looked up to by all of our younger athletes." It is not just Lilli's hard work and success on the court that has made her a valuable part of the program, but also the way she conducts herself and leads her teammates. "Lilli sets a good example by working hard every day and always staying positive," says Peter. He goes on to add, "Lilli never fails to answer the call, doing whatever is needed to help the team." This season, along with partner Molly Gardner, Lilli is part of the #2 doubles team that coach Conrad believes has what it takes to win a conference championship. Lilli and Molly are 8-5 on the season, with only one loss in conference play. "It wouldn't surprise me at all if Lilli and Molly become conference champs at 2 doubles this year," says Peter. He goes on to add, Their one conference loss was a three-set heartbreaker with Lilli giving her all while under the weather." Like most athletes, Lilli has endured a number of physical injuries, but she wants to use her experiences to better others by majoring in Exercise Science and Kinesiology. With a 3.8 G.P.A., Lilli will have a number of options available to her and has narrowed her choices to Illinois State University, Western Michigan University, and Grand Valley State University, hoping to stay around the midwest and be close to family. Abby Chesser, a science teacher at Oswego East, thinks Lilli is destined for success in the field, saying, "I see Lilli succeeding in Exercise Science and Kinesiology because of how hard of a worker she is and the passion she has for the field." She goes on to say, "She can handle any obstacles thrown her way and will continue to persevere and try her best through any problem. She is such a positive person and has been a joy to know here at OE. No matter what, Lilli will rise above and beyond to do and be her best!" Reflecting on her time at OE, Lilli advises future Wolves' by saying, "High school can be difficult, but if you surround yourself with caring people and get involved with sports and clubs, then Oswego East will soon feel like a 2nd home." Before Lilli moves away and finds a new second home next fall, there is little doubt she will continue doing what is necessary for her partner, her teammates, and herself to be the best tennis player, leader, and teammate she can be.