D6 Athlete of the Week: Hailey Ratliff, Greeley West High School

"Hailey Ratliff has been a tremendous representative for our girls tennis program for the past four years. As a senior, Hailey has taken over our captain position while leading us at the #1 doubles spot throughout the season. She is an incredibly hard worker and put in the time in the off season to reach such a prestigious position. Hailey is such a bright light to our program and her teammates. I have been so lucky having her lead us this season." - Ryan Pace, Tennis Coach

Student Name

Hailey Ratliff

School

Greeley West High School

Grade Level

Senior

Sports

• Tennis
• Swimming

Positions

• Tennis: #1 Varsity Doubles
• Swimming: Varsity

Stats

• Swimming: 4 years Varsity
• Tennis: 3 years Varsity
• Tennis: Senior Captain

"I am most proud of being #1 Doubles this year because it means I have grown a lot since the start of high school. Being in such a high spot on the team means a lot to me, and helps me realize that I have people looking up to me just like I looked up to previous #1 Doubles players." 

What's one goal you're currently working towards in your sport?

"Being more positive. When my partner and I start losing points, I get discouraged, but I've been working on being able to move on and stay positive instead of going completely negative." 

Describe your worst sports performance. What did you learn from this experience? 

"I think sophomore year holds some of my worst sports performances. From those experiences, I learned what it means to be a part of a team. My partner and I had a lot of ups and downs, but we learned to push through it and work together to make our season better." 

Who are your role models in your sport or life, and how have they influenced you? 

"My parents are my biggest role models. They've influenced me because they both played tennis in high school. Since they both played tennis, they understand the mental aspects of the game, and help me when I'm feeling down. They have always supported me and lifted me up."

How do you balance sports with other responsibilities like school or work?

"To balance my schoolwork and sports, I make sure to always have assignments ready by the next class period when I miss class. I also constantly communicate with my teachers, making sure I understand what I am missing and what I need to do to make things up."  

What are your career or college plans after you graduate high school? 

"After high school, I plan to go to college at Colorado State University to study political science." 

What advice do you have for younger athletes who want to join your sport?

"Push yourself! You can always do more than you think you are capable of."  

Do you have any funny pre-game rituals or superstitions that you stick to?

"I listen to the same song before I swim in a race or play in a tennis match. I also make sure to wear mascara and have my silver hoop earrings in." 

If you were to participate in a talent show unrelated to your sport, what would your act be?

"If I were in a talent show, I would play the guitar and have my friend sing along as I play."