Throughout an athlete’s career, there can be important moments that have an impact on them. It could be a personal milestone or a team achievement, but no matter what it is, that moment is something that will stay with the athlete for quite some time.

Zachary Kopec is a senior at Chickasha High School and is a member of the school’s tennis team. He says that his favorite moment is one that has nothing to do with a win or achievement.

“Recently, I played in a tournament and played against a guy who I had played before,” Zachary recalled. “I had lost to this player previously, but had enjoyed the fact that he was very down to earth and super nice. I enjoy playing singles, but sometimes playing in the number one spot means that you play the best of the best and oftentimes they are a bit cocky, whether it be justified or not. Though I did lose to this impressive player again, it was by far the best tennis I have ever played before. I kept the match incredibly close and lost to him only in a tie breaker.  Again, this player was a joy to play against and certainly was a highlight of my career.”

Along with playing tennis, Kopec is also a part of other groups. He serves as the vice president of the Future Farmers of America program at Chickasha and is a Canadian Valley Tech Ambassador. He is also a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the National Honor Society, and the National Technical Honor Society.

There have been people in his life that have helped shape Kopec into the person that he is today, but he has a few that have had the greatest impact.

“My biggest influences would be both of my parents because they are constantly helping me and guiding me through life,” he said. “In addition, my grandad, before he passed, inspired many of my dreams and passions and helped shape me into who I am today.  A final role model of mine would be Roger Federer due to the fact that throughout his entire career he has always been a humble player who always gets to do what is right.”

Over the years, Zachary had worked hard to continually improve his game, but he says that the physical work is not all that it takes.

“It has taken me many years of constant practice, improving my shots, and refining my technique,” Kopec stated. “Most importantly though, I have had to develop a mental toughness which helps me get through my matches.”