Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
HUNTER HARRISON
WHY HE WON:
When it comes to tennis, Hunter Harrison serves up wins. The 6-3 Pulaski Academy senior snagged the 2017 All-Arkansas Preps Outstanding Player of the Year award in Boys Tennis yet again after winning his second consecutive state overall title. Harrison kept his eye on the ball throughout the state tournament, where he won all six sets he played, including a 6-4, 6-3 victory against Catholic High School’s Parker Stearns. The two opponents have played in matches across the country as doubles partners, Harrison said. “He’s a good friend of mine, and I’m glad it was him that I played in the finals,” Harrison added. This two-time achievement came as no surprise to Pulaski Academy tennis coach Bill Topich. “Great players rise to the challenge, and that is exactly what Hunter did for the Bruins time and time again,” Topich said. “You can attribute Hunter’s repeat success to hard work and conditioning. His maturity and tenacity are second to none. Having been through pressure matches since his freshman year helped him develop the maturity and mental toughness needed to be a champion.” Harrison was also named the 5A-Central Conference champion and Class 5A state champion during his final high school season. His mother, Carolyn Harrison, said her son is goal-driven and dedicated to the sport. “He loves the game — loves to watch the game, loves to study the game,” she said. “We were thrilled that he set out for his goal, and he did it again, so that was awesome.” Hunter has maintained a 3.9 grade-point average, she said, adding that he received a scholarship to play tennis at Mississippi State University this fall. Topich said that Hunter’s winning attitude will shine during his college career. “Hunter is always respectful when playing and shows great sportsmanship at all times,” he said. “He dominated the tennis scene over the past several years but never let that phenomenal success go to his head. This positive mindset will serve him well as he continues his tennis journey at Mississippi State University.” Being a Bulldog will certainly bring new opportunities, which Hunter is excited to pursue. “I want to be able to be a big part of the Mississippi State team and maybe even win some SEC awards and be able to compete against all the other SEC teams,” he said. “And maybe — after my four years — maybe try to go pro. We’ll see what happens.”
I feel pretty good because I wanted to definitely win [this award] again for a second year in a row, so I had a lot of pressure on me. It’s definitely a good feeling to finish out my senior year with winning it.”