Back to Back Champions: Get To Know Yadkin's Newest Mixed Doubles Title Holders

Tennis isn’t just a sport, it’s a community. We caught up with several members of one of Yadkin’s mixed teams to learn more about how they got started, what they love about the local leagues, and what keeps them coming back to the courts year after year.

Getting Started

For some, tennis has been a lifelong passion. Laura recalls picking up a racket at just five years old; “the backboard was my babysitter as my mom played.” Joseph has also been on the courts for as long as he can remember, enjoying lessons, clinics, and now USTA leagues for both fun and competition.

Others found their love for the game later in life. Meghan started playing around 2010 in Atlanta after college, while Kristi picked the sport back up after a 25-year break once her kids went to school. Clarissa, too, rediscovered tennis about 12 years ago as a way to meet people after moving to a new city, and she hasn’t looked back since.

Playing Together

This group brings a mix of experience and fresh energy. Meghan and Clarissa have captained and played together for two seasons, while Kristi and Joseph joined the team more recently. Despite some roster changes due to players moving up to 4.0, the team’s spirit has stayed strong, fueled by support from past teammates who still show up to cheer them on.

Why Yadkin?

Ask anyone on the team, and the answer comes easily: it’s the people.

“The friendship and community are what make Yadkin special,” says Meghan. Kristi agrees, appreciating the “small community feel.” Clarissa echoes that sentiment: “We’ve become a family. Whether you’re on the same or opposite side of the net, everyone is genuinely fun, caring, and supportive.”

Joseph adds that the Winston-Salem tennis community goes beyond the game itself. “When teammates faced serious challenges this year, people from across the community reached out with kindness and support. That says a lot about the caliber of players here, both on and off the court.”

The Captain’s Perspective

For Meghan, captaining is about more than lineups and schedules, it’s about leadership and connection.

“I started captaining years ago because I saw a need for someone to organize and motivate,” she says. “It’s not always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. I love seeing players have fun, feel supported, and grow more confident throughout the season. At the end of the day, we play tennis to have fun and build community, and that’s what I try to cultivate.”