Blake to start her quest for a 3rd state title at 1st singles

With all of her natural talent, it did not come as a major surprise when Rowland Hall looked to Blake Harries to contribute once she came into the tennis program as a freshman two years ago.

Still, Harries couldn't help feeling a little mystified at immediately filling the second singles slot for the Winged Lions.

"I just hoped I could bring something to the team," Harries said. "But I didn't know I'd be that crucial of a player."

Harries proved how crucial of a role she could play right away, capturing state titles in 2005 and 2006. Now with the graduation of teammate and fellow state champion Stephanie Chard she will begin her quest for a third state title at first singles.

Based on what Harries has shown during her first two years, there should be little drop-off with her in the top spot.

"She is by far the most gifted athlete I've ever had on my girls tennis team," Rowland Hall coach Tim Sleeper said. "She has amazing hand-eye coordination."

Harries admits to being a little nervous about filling Chard's shoes as the lead-off singles player. Even with two state titles to her credit, it's hard not to wonder if she can keep going now that she will be facing every other 2A team's top player on a regular basis.

But don't think for a second that those occasional stomach butterflies will alter the essential components of Harries' game. Her competitive drive is too strong to let that happen.

"I just go into the matches the same, with the same mind-set," Harries said.

Harries manages to stay ahead of the curve on the academic side of things as well. While many of her tennis peers spent the summer competing in local tournaments, she spent time on the University of Utah campus.

Harries enrolled in a college-level chemistry class through a program at Rowland Hall. It was made possible by a nomination from her chemistry teacher.

Being in a college class — with its enormous class sizes and uninterrupted lectures — felt like stepping into a whole another world.

"I'm so used to being at Rowland Hall — a tiny school — and knowing all my teachers," Harries said. "I probably said two words to the professor. I don't think he knew my name at all."

While Harries is a headliner for Rowland Hall girl's tennis, she will hardly carry the team on her back.