On Saturday, Oct. 22, Hinsdale Central’s girls’ varsity tennis team won first place at the IHSA state tournament at Buffalo Grove High School. 

This is the team’s 20th state title and coach Shawna Zsinko’s third state championship as the head coach. 

“I have been the head coach for six seasons, one did not have a State with COVID, assistant for two, and volunteer coached for another four seasons before that,” Zsinko said. 

Most of the team has been playing tennis for much of their lives and have put time and dedication into the sport. 

“Most of the players prepare the whole year coming into high school season,” Zsinko said. 

Although the team has a reputation of being exceptional on the court and winning several state titles, this year’s win was not promised. Many of last year’s state players have graduated or moved away, leaving a much different line-up. 

“The win was something that wasn’t necessarily expected,” said Sophia Kim, senior. 

The girls had mixed emotions going onto the court, with many saying they were anxious about their performance, but overall excited to be able to represent Hinsdale Central at the state level. For many of the state players, this was their last tournament because they will be graduating this upcoming spring. 

“Yes, I was nervous, but I was also really excited to just be there and have the opportunity to play,” said Abigail Gambla, junior.

Kim had previously played her Saturday opponent and lost, making this match all the more nerve wracking and her win even more impressive. 

“Friday night, I don’t think I slept for more than an hour because I felt nauseous and was tossing and turning,” Kim said.

Overall, this victory was memorable for its players and a special moment in their tennis careers.