When I was just coming into Rowland Hall, I wasn't feeling completely at home. I had known Duke through tennis practice outside of school, and I talked to him once or twice in the halls. One day, as I passed by him, he stopped me and asked if I would come to the girls’ state matches. His offer really stuck with me, and it made me feel like I belonged in the student environment. This type of kindness and recognition is what makes Duke an amazing person to be around and why he is such a good fit to lead students as well as tennis players.

More than that, Duke’s offer made me question his relation to the girls tennis team. Why was he pushing to get more people to support the team? I discovered the answer to this question when I found out he was the manager of the girls’ tennis team. 

Duke has been playing tennis for 13 years and was inspired through his mother. His dedication and love for the sport can be seen not just in his leadership of the girls’ team, but through his constant participation on the boys’ team, where he plays a big part in camaraderie and teambuilding. He has been a key player on the varsity team since his freshman year, and is currently the team captain. He explains how this led to his position on the girls’ team, “On the ride back from the region tournament, Rich said, ‘Hey, I've got a new idea for you, team manager of the girls tennis team.’” Duke accepted and quickly jumped into his new role.

Duke has many responsibilities on the girls’ tennis team. Not only does he fill the coolers, but he carries them as well. More than just this physical labor, Duke sacrifices his own time and money going to the store to buy water and gatorade, making sure the girls have all they need. Whether it's snacks, fluids, or simply emotional support through cheering, he supplies it. This is another example of Duke showing selflessness, sacrificing his own commodities to support others and their tennis dreams. Duke is a strong leader for the team who the girls taught to be more patient, which is a lesson he takes off the court into his school life. This is something you’ll see clearly if you approach him in the halls: he’s always friendly, patient, and ready to talk.

Aside from his vast participation in school sports, he also has a very positive impact on the community around him. During summers and part of the school year, Duke helps run Nike tennis camps, helping everyone have fun and feel welcome. He shows up an hour before practice, making sure everything is safe and set up for the students to arrive. 

Duke is the perfect example of a student athlete. He truly loves the sport and gets involved with it in school and out. Not only is he a formidable player on the court, but he builds the community. He invites people to watch, he goes above and beyond to support, and he puts up his own time and dollar to help others improve. Duke recommends that students look into similar management positions for sports they love. He says to inquire with Zack for volunteer opportunities. If you love basketball, but can’t make all the practices or other team events, look into being the team manager. If you love a sport and want to make a difference in that community, these opportunities are for you.