Many athletes have risen above expectations at John P. Stevens High School; numerous names shine brightly amongst the players who have devoted time and effort to their lifetime sport. A prime example of this is none other than star tennis player Neeva: a determined leader who proved herself on and off the court.
Neeva’s journey with tennis started when she was 8 years old. She wanted to pursue a sport and excel in that position, so she picked up a tennis racket and never looked back. Since then, tennis has shaped Neeva’s life. She practiced day and night while balancing her academic life. By the time she entered high school, Neeva fell in love with competitions and team spirit.
However, what truly sets Neeva apart is her uplifting spirit and leadership. A teammate said, “She is an extremely talented and energetic person. As captain, she helps the team grow and is truly a big part of us.” Neeva is always described as a fun person to be around and as someone who is always looking for competition. She is also described as “incredibly caring” and is “always there to put a smile on your face.”
Reflecting on her 4 years with the team, Neeva acknowledges so many great times. Amongst them, her top memory was becoming a captain of the team as a junior and senior. Along with this, Neeva notes that the opening of the new JP courts and singing songs on the bus to away games are among the many moments that she will remember. Through these experiences, Neeva created an unbreakable bond between the entire team.
Neeva’s remarkable achievements don’t stop there. As a freshman, Neeva advanced as part of the varsity team; she played first doubles and led the team to success multiple times. From there on, she only improved and moved up the ladder. In her sophomore year, she played 3rd singles, eventually moving up to play 2nd singles her junior and senior years. In her sophomore year, Neeva received the “most improved player” award, showing the rise in determination in skill and vigor as she rose to one of the top spots on the team. In addition, Neeva placed in the top 5 of the Greater Middlesex Conference tournament all four years.
Neeva’s leadership extends beyond the white lines of the tennis courts; she has supported an environment where everyone enjoys their time and has fun. Her valuable teamwork and cohesive leadership have led the team to many instances of success. Neeva encourages underclassmen to “try new things, as you never know what might click and what may not. Being a part of a team is genuinely uplifting and helps you balance your social and academic life.”
Neeva Sule will leave her legacy behind as she begins the next chapter of her life, as she has shown the school what it means to have incredible leadership and teamwork.
