Elsey Ruane: The Captain of All Captains
By Ava Schmidt
Senior Elsey Ruane is a dedicated student at MBHS, where she has made a significant impact as both a member and captain of the varsity tennis team. Her passion for tennis is evident in her unwavering commitment to practice and competition, and her impressive skills on the court have earned the respect and admiration of her teammates and coaches alike. Ruane's relentless pursuit of excellence is not just about winning matches; it reflects her deep love for the sport and her desire to continually improve.
“I think she is sweet and kind and caring and funny, but she is also serious at some times, but overall she is able to stay sweet and kind and nice and thoughtful, while also being a constructive leader,” said sophomore Emily Cordes, one of Ruane’s closest friends.
Beyond her athletic abilities, Ruane is known for her friendly and approachable personality, which makes her a beloved figure among her teammates. Her friends frequently express their appreciation for her, highlighting her sweet and caring nature. “What makes Elsey a good leader is that she is very controlling and makes our team good,” said Cordes.
Ruane's positive attitude and supportive spirit create a welcoming environment for everyone on the team. This nurturing quality not only enhances team morale, but also fosters strong bonds among teammates, making practices and matches enjoyable experiences. “I think it’s kind of my job to be the bridge between the coaches and the players,” Ruane said. She believes that being team captain is the “bridge between the coaches and players” because she feels that it’s her job to be fair and equal to everyone.
She exemplifies hard work and determination during matches and practices, setting a strong standard for her companions to follow. Her capacity to inspire and uplift her teammates, particularly in challenging moments, has made her an invaluable member of the team. Whether she’s delivering motivational talks before crucial matches or sharing lighthearted moments with friends, Ruane consistently works to foster a sense of unity and collaboration. Her ability to balance competitiveness with camaraderie is a testament to her character and leadership style.
Her leadership is displayed in various ways, showcasing her approach to guiding her team. “I think I do a good job making sure everyone has a good input and I feel like I’m fair and I do a good job of doing that. I have good ideas of what we could do as a team and what we could do more of, and I include other people’s ideas,” said Ruane.
As she approaches the end of her high school experience, Ruane's influence on the varsity tennis team will be remembered not only for her athletic achievements, but also for the kindness and leadership she has demonstrated throughout her time at MBHS. Her example of leadership will surely motivate future players on the team to embrace the same spirit of teamwork and positivity that she has exemplified during her years on the tennis team. Ruane's legacy will undoubtedly inspire others to strive for excellence while also prioritizing the importance of friendship and support within the sport. As she prepares to embark on the next chapter of her life, the lessons she has been taught and the relationships she has built will leave a lasting impact on her teammates and the MBHS tennis community.