Credit: Tommy Fleming | The News Herald

Freedom senior Stevie Harrell recently signed a letter of intent to play tennis at Greensboro College. Flanking Harrell on the front row are her father Steve Harrill (left) and mother Joy Harrell. Standing (from left) are her sister Ashley Harrell, Freedom principal Dr. Ken Prichard, athletic director Joey Davis and sister her other Brittany Harrell.

Freedoms Stevie Harrell recalls picking up a tennis racket and hitting balls at an early age. But it was her sophomore year just two weeks prior to the start of the tennis season in August 2010 when she realized her sport was found.

I started playing on the Freedom courts at practice. I then realized This is my sport, said Harrell, whose two older sisters played softball at FHS before signing to play on the college level.

Harrell worked her way quickly from the No. 7 position into the fourth spot her sophomore year. As a junior, she played at the No. 2 singles position behind senior Bao Xiong before taking over at No. 1 her senior campaign.

On Monday, Harrills tennis journey continued as the senior signed to play at Greensboro College, an NCAA Division III program.

Im thrilled to be playing tennis at the college level. The school is small and I really liked the campus, said Harrell, who plans to work as a recreational therapist with special needs children. I visited once when the tennis team was playing a match and felt like I would be at home there.

My parents, as well as my two older sisters, encouraged and supported me in my decision-making process as I was made two offers from Division II schools. There was no pressure in that I must follow in both sisters footsteps. Im glad Im playing tennis so that I will not be compared to their softball progress at the college level.

Freedom tennis coach Wayne Giese said Harrells progress on the tennis courts has been solid during her three years.

Stevie has taken private and group lessons to improve her serving, consistency and volleying. She has played especially well in doubles at the net, Giese added. Stevie joined the USTA and played in some tournaments. She has a very competitive edge. I wish Stevie well in her future endeavors and play at Greensboro College.

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Freedom's Harrell inks with Greensboro College for tennis