All teenagers fantasize about finding the love of their lives, well most of them anyway. I think I’ve found mine. It cheers me up when I’m sad. Of course, we have our differences and arguments, but all in all, it’s sincerely become crucial to my existence. If tennis wasn’t a part of my life, I don’t think I’d be Jasmin Klassen. 

   Funny story: when I started the sport back in seventh grade, I had decided that I was going to be a softball player. I picked up the racket, and it just took off from there. I had a natural knack for it, and I fell for the sport as quickly as I started it. 

   I wouldn’t have been able to pursue this passion if it wasn’t for my family and coach. My parents have supported me since my first day. I can’t count the times they’ve traveled to come and see me do what I love. The times my momma spreads Icy Hot on my shoulders because they were burning so much from overuse. The way my dad holds me when I come home from practice in tears because school wasn’t the greatest, and tennis and I had had a disagreement. The way my sister looks up to me always pushes me to keep going even when some things suck the life out of me. Sometimes the butting of heads can really drain a person, especially draining when I’m just trying to ignore the problem.

   Some of the best feelings come from seeing my progress in the shots I can create and perform. My favorite things are the tan lines that cover my skin, white ankles and back due to my ankle braces and racerbacks. It’s a proud feeling when someone makes a comment about my “white socks”.    One of the most inspiring things is watching the beauty and grace of the greatest of all time in tennis, Roger Federer. He’s won 20 major singles titles–the most of any man in history. The way he plays is an art. You don’t have to play tennis to understand and see the skill he has. Not only is his game classy and clean, but his attitude is also. He’s known around the world for it. 

    When I think about how far I’ve come with this love, this passion, tears just collect–some of sadness but most of happiness. The friends that have come and supported me, the teammates that have become family–I can’t express the feeling that wells up in my chest when I think about the memories and things I’ve learned from the love of my life.   I plan to play in college if it’s possible, but knowing I’m going to leave my team and my coach of six years and the place that has become my second home, truly saddens me. However, I’m excited to begin writing a new chapter of my life. Hopefully, I’ll be a tennis beast trying to become another adult who’s secretly a child.