Harper Love didn’t just make the Pike Road varsity tennis team as a seventh grader, she became one of its most consistent winners.
Playing #4 singles for the Patriots, Harper finished the season with a perfect 15-0 record in singles play. She also teamed up with her older sister, Riley, at #1 doubles, where the pair went 13-1, with their only loss coming by forfeit after Riley suffered cramps during a match. For Harper, the chance to share the court with her sister was the highlight of the year.
Her success did not happen by accident. Harper said playing USTA Junior tournaments helped prepare her for the speed, pressure, and competition of varsity tennis.
That preparation showed when she won first place in Class 6A Section 2 at both #4 singles and #1 doubles. She later advanced to the quarterfinals of the Class 6A state tournament in singles and the semifinals in doubles.
Her mom, Misty Love, has had the rare opportunity to watch Harper’s season through two lenses: as a mother and as Pike Road’s girls tennis coach.
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“As a mom, I’m proud that even with health constraints, Harper still pushes herself and never uses that as an excuse,” Misty said. “As a coach, I’m proud to have a seventh grader not only make varsity, but play #4 singles and #1 doubles, and then be the only player on the team to go undefeated all season in singles.”
Harper’s season was more than impressive. It was a glimpse of what may be ahead. With her talent, toughness, and support from her family and teammates, this young Patriot has already shown she can compete with the best. And she’s only getting started.
