Barrington's Dodge focuses on another state tourney journey
Most high school varsity tennis players dream of having the chance to play in the state competition even once.
Entering her final term on Barrington's varsity squad, Kristy Dodge is way ahead of the game. She will compete for the possibility of playing at state again for a third consecutive year as the Fillies' No. 1 singles player. It would be her fourth trip overall, as she competed in doubles at state as a freshman.
Dodge plays year-round tennis. She participated in eight tournaments this summer in Arizona, Georgia and Illinois. She ultimately placed second with Megan Kurey, a Georgia resident, in doubles at the National Open in Georgia.
"I just have to keep hitting more," Dodge said. "I have to keep working hard on my game and being aggressive in coming to the net."
Dodge began her career in tennis at the age of 4. In addition to tennis, Dodge participated in soccer and dance.
When she turned 9, her parents Charles and Karen had a conversation with Dodge about devoting her time strictly to tennis.
Dodge participated in her first national tournament when she was 12.
"My mom played tennis with (Dodge), and I knew her family because they were from the Crystal Lake area," said Barrington coach Tracy Waters-Miller. "The first time I saw (Dodge) play was when she was in fifth or sixth grade in the McHenry County Open. I immediately liked that she could play doubles at that age."
As a freshman, Dodge took second in state with then doubles partner Kelsey Linden. Then Dodge took fourth in singles as a sophomore, and sixth last season as a junior. She will attempt to replicate or even improve her finish as she concludes senior year.
"Last year we played, we went from outside to indoors," said Dodge of last year's state match. "The girl I played hit an awesome backhand on a really fast court. I hope this year I am a little more consistent and keep my focus. If I keep consistent through in- and outdoor tennis, (the wind and the court) won't play as factors."
In her three years of playing varsity, Dodge managed to increase the attention from Division I programs.
Next fall, Dodge plans to attend and play at Michigan after verbally agreeing to join the Wolverines and coach Ronnie Bernstein. Dodge will make an official visit in November to sign with the school.
"She started as a good player and she would always consistently improve," Waters-Miller said. "She always loved practice and goes above and beyond. She likes competing in practice as well.
"I always hope that she can make it back to state, but it depends on who she plays. She has as good of chance as any."
After the first week and a half of play, Dodge's record stands at 5-1. She placed third in singles in the New Trier Tournament on Saturday.
Whatever happens in her senior season, Dodge is excited about the future.
"I always knew I wanted to go to Michigan, because my dad (Charles) played baseball there and my parents met there, which fits me perfectly," Dodge said. "I was asked about my goals the other day. I don't like to set goals, because when I set them I keep thinking too much about it. You know, I think goals set limits. I like to leave my options open."