By Cooper Chadwick
Looking to become a three time state medalist, Maize’s Hayden Herrera has the potential to break 100 high school career wins his senior year.
Head coach Jeremy Bernard gives Herrera high praise as an athlete and as a person.
“Hayden is an outstanding player and young man. He works very hard to improve his tennis ability. He is also a great person. He inspires his teammates and creates a positive culture within our team,” Bernard said.
Herrera tried out for Baseball his freshman year, and didn’t make the team. He played baseball growing up but decided to try out tennis, and has committed the last four years to improving his game.
Herrera spends the offseason putting in work five days a week with private lessons as well as cardio and weight training to play at the highest level. Due to Herrera’s hard work and seniority he is the captain for the eagles.
“Having this role I enjoy going around talking with most of the players and helping them improve on their game. I have enjoyed this role because I have made a lot of good connections with my teammates,” Herrera said.
One thing Herrera has made a focus for the upcoming season is improving his mental game.
“In tennis having a strong mental game is a very key aspect and it’s something I have struggled on but I have been working on it more and I am getting better at being positive and not letting the negative thoughts affect me during tournaments,” Herrera said.
