On any given afternoon in Smyrna, the courts are alive.
There’s the rhythm of rally after rally, the quiet focus before a serve, the cheers from teammates just beyond the baseline. But at Campbell High School this season, there’s been something more—something you can feel even before the first point is played.
“This season feels different,” says Coach Zachary Hall.
In his 13th year leading the program, Zach has seen plenty of strong teams. But this year stands apart.
The girls team claimed the region championship—an achievement built on years of hard work and a powerful mix of senior leadership and emerging talent. Among them is freshman Zoe Wadawu, already competing at the top singles position for a team ranked among the best in the state this season. On the boys’ side, a second-place regional finish has set the stage for a promising playoff run, led by senior standout Rajat Shirur, whose work ethic and leadership have left a lasting mark on the program.
Still, for Zach, the wins only tell part of the story.
“I’ve taught many of these players in the classroom, too,” he says. “It’s incredibly rewarding to watch them grow—not just as athletes, but as people.”
That growth is intentional. The culture at Campbell is rooted in accountability, teamwork, and servant leadership—showing up for one another, putting the team first, and striving to give your best each day.
That same spirit is reflected in Smyrna’s broader tennis community, which Chris Peck describes as “vibrant and growing across all age groups.”
Chris has spent more than 20 years coaching locally and, through Smyrna Tennis Academy, has served as the City of Smyrna’s youth tennis partner for two decades—helping introduce generations of players to the game.
He’s watched participation steadily rise, with a notable surge in recent years as tennis became an accessible, engaging outlet for families.
“You just need a racket, a ball, and someone to hit with,” he says. “It’s a game you can play for a lifetime.”
That accessibility is part of what makes Smyrna such a special place for young athletes. Opportunities are close to home, and the path to improvement is always within reach.
At Campbell, that growth is unmistakable. Tryouts now draw dozens of players, and the level of play has risen across the board. What was once a program with a few standout players has become a team where every line is strong.
But ask Chris what matters most, and he’ll point to something less visible.
“The independence the game teaches,” he says. “You learn confidence. You learn to trust yourself.”
Those lessons extend far beyond the court.
For Zach, they show up in the way his players lead, support one another, and carry themselves both on and off the court. It’s what makes saying goodbye to this year’s seniors especially meaningful—and what makes the future so exciting.
Because while this season will be remembered for its milestones, it’s also laying the foundation for what comes next.
And in Smyrna, that next chapter is already beginning—built on the kind of growth, grit, and connection that will carry these players far beyond the court.
On the Court & In the Community
Smyrna’s tennis scene continues to grow, offering programs for players of all ages and levels.
• Explore youth and adult tennis opportunities: SmyrnaTennis.com
• Support CHS tennis by attending home matches and cheering on the team
“It’s incredibly rewarding to watch them grow—not just as athletes, but as people.”