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Top ranked teen looks to move up
By TERRY JONES LUTZ -- Tennis sensation Stacia Fonseca is the No. 1 ranked 16-and-under girls player in Florida. The United States Tennis Association Florida Section also ranked her No. 2 in doubles play. The top ranking will help Fonseca in some of the more competitive tournaments in the country during a tough summer playing schedule. Although she won't turn 17 until September, she will be playing mostly in the 18-and-under competition this summer. "I will play some 16s, but mostly I will play up to 18s," Fonseca said. "The ranking will probably give me higher seedings, but as far as my personal play, nothing will change. I will continue to take one match at a time and strive to improve my game in each tournament." Last year in 16s competition, Fonseca finished as a rare triple-crown winner. She won state championships in singles, doubles and mixed doubles. She hopes to repeat the feat this year in 18s. Fonseca will complete her sophomore year this month at Bayshore Christian School. When not competing in weeklong tournaments, she trains three to five hours daily at Cheval Country Club, near her home in Lutz. "My father (Raul) has a lot to do with my ranking," said Fonseca, who was recently inducted into the National Honor Society for her academic accomplishments. "He evaluates all the tournaments to find the best competition to allow me to win the most points. He is also my primary coach. He works out with me nearly every day." Included in her schedule are big tournaments in Florida, California and South Carolina. Up first will be a national tournament June 1-5 in Hilton Head, S.C.
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From the Times |
