VYPE: How long have you played tennis, and what first got you interested in the sport?
Gunner Weikle: I’ve been playing tennis now for around six years. I think what first got me interested in the sport was how fast some points could end and how long a single rally could last. You see this in pro play and that’s what really made me interested.
VYPE: Do you have a favorite memory in your time competing for Collinsville?
GW: It was our third or fourth tournament where I and my Doubles player at the time, Jacob, were on track to being on the podium. Our second to last opponent was Pryor and that entire game I was on the back line just running from one end of the court to the next. It was tiring but so fun to just put 110 percent into that game.
VYPE: Do you have a favorite opponent to compete against? If so, why?
GW: I think my favorite opponent was Pryor, they made me work the hardest in terms of stamina, pacing the game, and where I needed to put my shots.
VYPE: What is your best piece of advice for someone just starting tennis?
GW: The biggest piece of advice I can give is just be patient. The game will be very confusing at the start. Scoring is a pain, knowing what grip to hit with, serves will be your bane for months, but patience is key. You will learn, you just have to be patient.
VYPE: What song hypes you up before a game?
GW: A song that always gets me in the mood is probably an overplayed one but a good one, “Eye of the Tiger” from Rocky III. My father made me a game time playlist to listen to and that’s always at the start of it.
VYPE: What is your go to post-game meal?
GW: Go to post meal would have to be a terrible thing but a Whataburger patty melt after a big tournament is delicious. Something about the sauce and onions are divine.
VYPE: Who do you look to as a role model and why?
GW: I think a big role model in my life is my father. He was an athlete before my time, so he’s taught me a lot on patience, work ethic, and discipline. A tennis role model would have to be Jannik Sinner. The way he’s able to stay cool under pressure is a masterclass.
VYPE: What is your favorite subject in school?
GW: Favorite subject in school always has been and always will be English. I love writing and reading. It’s a great past time for me and helps me cool off after a bad practice or match.
VYPE: What are your plans after high school?
GW: I plan on attending TCC to get my basics and then pursuing a law degree from Tulsa University.
