Olivia Dartawan, a sophomore from Niskayuna, is set to compete in the NYSPHSAA girls' tennis singles championship for the second consecutive year. After a successful run through the tournament, Dartawan has secured a spot in the state title match, where she will look to avenge last year's runner-up finish and claim the coveted championship.

A Determined Pursuit of Glory

Navigating the Road to the Finals

Dartawan's journey to the state championship has been nothing short of impressive. After winning her quarterfinal and semifinal matches at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on Tuesday, she has secured a spot in the highly anticipated title match on Wednesday morning. The road to this point has been arduous, as Dartawan had to navigate through a competitive field of 32 players to reach the finals."It's definitely a long road to get to the final," Dartawan acknowledged. "You have to be in the top three in sectionals, and you have to get through states. Sometimes it feels a little nerve-racking, especially since I want to do better than I did last year."Dartawan's determination to improve upon her previous performance has been a driving force throughout the tournament. Last year, she fell to Garden City senior Nina Wiese in the state final, a defeat that has fueled her desire to claim the championship this time around.

Maintaining Composure and Confidence

Despite the high stakes and the pressure of competing for a state title, Dartawan has remained focused on staying relaxed and playing her best tennis. She recognizes the importance of not putting too much pressure on herself, as she aims to channel her experience from last year's runner-up finish."Last year gave me the confidence that I can do this. I didn't really have any expectations, other than just playing well," Dartawan said. "I don't want to put too much pressure on myself tomorrow. It's still just about staying relaxed and playing well."Dartawan's ability to maintain her composure and confidence has been a key factor in her success throughout the tournament. She has faced a series of tough opponents, each of whom has presented a unique challenge, but Dartawan has found a way to overcome them.

Balancing Tennis and Academics

Dartawan's dedication to her craft extends beyond the tennis court, as she has also had to juggle her academic responsibilities during the tournament. Between matches, she has been diligently completing assignments and preparing for tests in subjects like chemistry, social studies, Spanish, and English."I actually have to," Dartawan said of completing her school work. "I have tests that I have to make up, so I'm [studying]. I have chemistry, social studies, Spanish and English."Dartawan's commitment to both her athletic and academic pursuits is a testament to her well-rounded approach to life. She understands the importance of maintaining a balance between her passion for tennis and her academic obligations, a skill that will undoubtedly serve her well both on and off the court.

Facing a Formidable Opponent

Dartawan's opponent in the state championship match will be Angel Walia of Section 8's Herricks High School. Walia has also navigated her way through a challenging field to reach the finals, and Dartawan knows that she will have to bring her A-game to emerge victorious."I feel like all of my opponents have been tough," Dartawan said. "The tennis is really high-level, everyone is mature, and hits a good ball. Every match I have to find a way to win."The matchup between Dartawan and Walia promises to be a thrilling and closely contested affair, as both players have demonstrated their exceptional skills and determination throughout the tournament. Dartawan's experience from last year's final, coupled with her unwavering focus and composure, could give her the edge she needs to claim the state title.