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  • Pendleton Heights' Graham McMullen lines up a return shot during his No. 1 singles match in the Madison County Tournament final against Anderson on Aug. 28. File photo

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September 6, 2010

Athlete of The Week: Force of will lifts McMullen

By Julia Cline For The Herald Bulletin

PENDLETON, Ind. — Graham McMullen took his freshman year to gain some experience, get accustomed to varsity high school tennis and learn from the upperclassmen. This year, the sophomore has become a leader, a competitor and a force for Pendleton Heights.

McMullen, who co-captains with his older brother, Evan, is leading the Arabians with his accurate hits, strong play and competitive attitude.

“From last year, he played in the No. 2 position and he ended at 20-3 for the season,” said coach Royce Hammell. “This year he’s played well, starting out at 8-0. He’s prepared himself well and continues to work hard on various shots.”

Along with his natural skill and determined attitude, McMullen comes from a tennis background that has helped him get where he is.  But even with his talented tennis family, McMullen has taken his game into his own hands to help solidify his top ranking.

“His strength is that he’s very competitive. He hates to lose. And because of that, he works extra hard so he will always be prepared,” said Hammell. “His only weakness is that he has yet to be really challenged. We have some matches coming up where he will be challenged pretty stiffly, like at the Richmond Invitational (on Saturday).”

Over the weekend McMullen came in third in his division after succumbing to a talented player in the second round.

“Graham played well all day. He ran into him in the second round, otherwise he would have made it to the finals,” said Hammel.

While losing only three matches in his first year, McMullen is back this year with the same mindset but the goal to do even better. “He has done all that we’ve asked of him,” said Hammel. “He’s worked hard all summer. I think he knew coming in he would be in the No. 1 spot and he knew that would bring a lot of pressure and tough matches to be played. He worked on his game all summer and he really came out ready to play, ready to get even better, and ready to lead the team to the best that it can be.”

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