Student Athlete of the Week: Samantha Zacky

Senior Samantha Zacky has spent the past four years making her mark on Niwot High School's tennis program. A dedicated doubles player, she has built a strong partnership with her teammate Anne Haley and has cherished every match they have played together. She thrives in the strategy of doubles play and the energy of team competition, but what she values most is the support that comes with it.

"I always have so much fun every game, no matter the outcome," Zacky said. "That's what I love most about the sport."

She picked up a racket for the first time at ten years old and never looked back. Since then, tennis has been a constant in her life, shaping her high school experience both on and off the court. As a senior, she has embraced her final season with the same enthusiasm she has always brought to the game.

The energy has not gone unnoticed by her teammates, especially Haley. "She's obviously super talented, which makes her great to play with, but more than that, she's super energetic and positive," Haley said. "She believes in me and supports me, making us a super successful duo."

The pair have had their fair share of big moments together, including a third-place finish at state last season after beating Mullen in a tight set. "It was such a fun and memorable moment," Haley said.

While tennis has been a major commitment, Zacky has made time for other interests. Earlier this year, she founded the Jewish Together Club at NHS to help create a space for students to connect. However, once the tennis season started, she handed over leadership so she could focus on practices and matches.

Academically, IB Sports Science has challenged her unlike anything else she has studied previously. Off the court, one of her most significant moments this year was submitting her final college application. She took it as a chance to reflect on how much she has grown and to look ahead to what is next.

As for her favorite Cougar tennis memories, she said there are too many to count. "Our trips to Pueblo," she said. "I can't pick a specific one because our team is so bonded, and everything is so special. We laugh a lot, and I love all the jokes we share and new stories we make."

Zacky is quick to give credit to the people around her for making her time at Niwot so special. She has deep appreciation for Haley and their four years as doubles partners, as well as the coaching staff that has supported her along the way.

"They are so supportive, funny, and inspiring," she said. "They help shape the team dynamics, and I can't imagine having played for anyone else."

With the season still in full swing, she is focused on finishing strong while soaking in every last moment with her team.