Manasco of Eupora inks with Holmes CC
She’s only been in Eupora for a year, but Macie Manasco has made her mark not only on the tennis program, but the entire community.
Manasco came to Eupora from Clarkdale last year and tennis coach Randee Jernigan noticed some special characteristics early. She became a big part of the cross country and tennis teams, but also an active part of the church and community in Eupora.
Her leadership on the courts shined through even as a newbie for the Eagles and it’s continued into year two.
“She puts a lot of dedication into everything she does,” Jernigan said. “When it comes to tennis, she’s really done a lot for the younger girls. The mentor role that she’s grown into, it’s kind of like it’s been her purpose.
“On the court, she’s a hitter. She’s never loud and you can tell that she’s thinking through everything that she does. Her ability to be versatile really stands out. She is going to do well wherever you put her and she can play with anybody. She is a fantastic team player.”
All of those things attracted the current staff at Holmes Community College to the point that they offered a scholarship. She signed those papers last week and will be competing for the Bulldogs next season.
Coach Greg Levert leads the way for the tennis team at Holmes along with assistant Owen Taylor and they’ve had some Webster County flavor there recently. Currently, East Webster alums Cooper Reed and Victor Mitchell are playing for the Bulldog men’s team along with Starkville’s Chase Naylor from up the road.
While Manasco played doubles and mixed doubles a year ago for Eupora, she’ll be playing more singles this season as Jernigan wants to prepare her for the college game.
The coach believes that big things are ahead and Holmes wanted her for a reason.
“They were ones that knew from the beginning that they wanted her and thought she would fit with them well,” Jernigan said. “She’s super coachable and is one that would be able to pick up quick and push hard. She gives 100%.”