NNS Tennis MVP: J. Allen Smith
Sometimes there are good players, and then there's someone like J. Allen Smith. Smith is a generational talent. I'd heard about him, but until you witness this freakishly long, powerful tennis athlete in action, it's hard to grasp his dominance.
Smith has been selected as this year's Neuse News Sports Tennis MVP. A standout player for Arendell Parrott Academy, Smith has maintained an undefeated streak in #1 singles matches since his arrival at APA, and this season, he didn't just beat his opponents - he dominated them.
J. Allen Smith's impressive senior season stats lay testament to his dominance: 12-0 in singles and 11-1 in doubles this season.
Smith's love for tennis can be traced back to his mother. Although Smith was born and raised in Chapel Hill, his mother's Czech roots - a country where tennis is a beloved sport - influenced his early introduction to the sport. He began playing when he was around eight years old, finding immediate enjoyment and success in the game. Even after moving away from Chapel Hill in the 8th grade to the less tennis-prolific environment in Parrott, Smith's passion for the sport never wavered.
He expressed, “I finally got to where I am today solely on practice and traveling to tournaments all across the southeast." Smith's multifaceted interests extend beyond the tennis court, as he loves spending time outdoors fishing, wakeboarding, and simply relaxing with friends.
Smith's coach, Robert Dawson, had nothing but high praise for him, stating, “He is every coach’s dream. I have coached a lot of kids over the past 20 years!" He also pointed out Smith's confidence, predicting, "There won’t be anyone as talented as him for a few years locally."
As Smith sets to graduate this summer, he leaves an unmatched legacy behind. He's not just another good player; he's a generational talent that has elevated the sport of tennis at Arendell Parrott Academy. His impact will be remembered for years to come, and his potential for future greatness remains unquestionable.
