Madeline Gentry breaks Normal West high school history with sectional titles
NORMAL, Ill –– As a junior, Madeline Gentry is a three-time State Qualifier in tennis, both in Singles her freshman year, then in Doubles last year. With COVID-19 this season, IHSA did not hold a State Championship in girls’ tennis. However, Madeline was Sectional Champ in Singles and IHSA awarded all Sectional Champions “All-State” honors. She became the first tennis player in West’s school history to win a Sectional title in both Doubles (2019) and Singles (2020). Gentry has played three years for West, but has played competitive tennis for seven years.
What are some of the most memorable wins you’ve had?
“The losses definitely stick with me more than the wins because that’s where you learn from your mistakes. However, the most memorable win I’ve had was the 2019 Big 12 Conference Singles final. ”
As an athlete, what is a rule you live by?
“First and foremost, I try to glorify God in all that I do, which means I will always show respect to my opponent, no matter who they are.”
What’s the best piece of advice you received from a coach or mentor?
“One of my coaches has always told me to expect your opponent to bring their “A-Game” and always expect it to be a difficult match, every time you step on the court.”
Describe a mistake you made while competing and how you overcame it.
“One of the reasons why the 2019 Big 12 Conference Singles final was so memorable was that I faced great adversity throughout the match. The win that day was insane and I couldn’t seem to figure it out. I made the mistake of letting it get to my head, but luckily, I managed to calm down and pull out the win.”
Do you have a pre-game ritual? Do you have a favorite pre-game song to listen to?
“I am definitely not a superstitious person, so I don’t have any pre-game rituals other than I eat the right foods and hydrate. However, during tournaments I will always use the same racket until I lose with it. (I have four rackets in my bag.) I like to think of it as my “winning racket.”
What do you like to do when you’re not playing tennis?
“I’m very involved with my church as a member of the high school youth group and as a leader for the jr. high youth ministries. I also enjoy practicing and playing the violin, as well as hanging out with my friends.”
What’s your favorite snack food?
“I’m not exactly sure why, but carrots.”
If someone in your family chose one word to describe you, who would you pick and what word would they use? Why?
“My parents would describe me as dedicated because I am constantly working to maintain my grades and working to improve my tennis game. ”
How would you describe your personality?
“I’d say I am pretty laid back and level-headed.”
When you close your eyes and dream about your future, what does that look like?
“I see a lot of tennis in my future. I’m not exactly sure what I’ll be studying in college, but I’m definitely planning to be playing tennis wherever I go to college.”
Congratulations to Madeline Gentry for being the recent B-N Sports Athlete of the Month! We wish you continued success in your tennis career!
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