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The Woodlands Makes History with Class 6A Team Tennis State Title
The Woodlands Highlanders etched their names into the record books, capturing the Class 6A State Championship in thrilling fashion with a 10–9 victory over Westwood High.
The win marks the first team tennis state title in school history. It was a true team effort from start to finish — the Highlander girls secured six match wins, while the boys added four more to clinch the championship in a dramatic finale.
VYPE’s Matt Malatesta caught up with coach Kevin McIlvain as the magnitude of the historic weekend began to sink in.
From team chemistry to clutch performances, McIlvain reflected on what made this championship run so special.
Listen to the full interview now on VYPE.com or wherever you get your podcasts.
DESIRE TO INSPIRE: Usner coming out of "Little Sister" shadow
ANNA CLAIRE USNER HAS ALWAYS BEEN JACK USNER’S “LITTLE SISTER”.
She doesn’t mind, though.
“Yeah, I know I kind of grew up in his shadow, but I learned a lot from him,” she said. “When you want to be the best, you have to become obsessed with the drive to get there. He taught me how to work hard for things.”
Jack and his teammates won TAPPS State golf three consecutive years in dominating fashion, and he’s now playing college golf at Texas A&M.
While Jack has been at the top of the mountain in his sport, Anna Claire has forged her own journey and is also enjoying success.
“I started in competitive cheer but by 10-years-old I wanted to do something else,” she laughed. “My parents told me it was either golf or tennis. I was
getting tired of following Jack around with
so I started playing tennis. I got pretty good at it and it’s something I can do for the rest of my life.
“I made it to State last year, but I was the only one from TWCA. I was looking at everyone having fun with their teams. This year, I want to bring my team. I’m encouraging everyone to work hard so we can all get there.”
Usner is also a cheerleader at TWCA, hangs with her friends and shops, like most teenagers, but her true passion is kids.
“I’ve always done after-school care for kids,” she said. “When you are young, you always look up to the older kids who take time to hang out with you. I want to inspire the next generation. They will always remember you for doing that.”
Her plan is to study pediatric physical therapy at Texas A&M.
Following her brother isn’t so bad after all. He’s been her inspiration.