Some athletes discover their sport through family tradition, while others stumble upon it by chance. For Gus Byrd, tennis became a passion thanks to a simple summer camp. “I started playing tennis because my mom signed me up for the country club tennis camps, and I fell in love from there,” he shared. That early spark has now grown into a full commitment to the game, with Gus leading Ada High School’s tennis team as one of its standout players.
Tennis isn’t just about hitting the ball for Gus—it’s about the challenge. “I was inspired to play tennis and love playing tennis because it is so challenging,” he explained. “Some days you have a great day where you’re hitting super well, and other days you feel like you’re a newborn giraffe trying to stand.” That balance between triumph and struggle is what keeps him motivated, along with the relationships he builds along the way. “I love how tennis allows you to meet people and grow closer even though you are playing against each other.”
At Ada, team chemistry is everything, and Gus is proud of how close-knit his group has become. “Our team is young, including myself, but we have been playing together since sixth grade, so we are more than just a team—we are a family,” he said. The Ada tennis program embraces the motto ‘we over me,’ and Gus believes they embody that mindset every time they step on the court.
His training schedule reflects his dedication. “In a normal week of training, I have school practice from 2:30-4 Monday through Friday, then I have a tennis lesson every Thursday from 6-7,” he said. “I normally hit Saturday and Sunday depending on my schedule, and I hit 2-3 times after school practice a week.” The grind is intense, but Gus embraces the process, always striving to improve.
Looking ahead, Gus has big goals. “I see myself and the team winning state,” he said. “I also see myself growing more as a person, getting closer with God, and I hope to be traveling and meeting a bunch of people.” While he isn’t sure if he’ll pursue tennis at the collegiate level, he trusts that the right path will reveal itself. “I think if the time comes and I feel like God is leading me to play tennis in college, then I will pursue that, but right now I’m having fun playing every day and getting better.”
Above all, Gus is grateful for the support that has shaped his journey. “I’d like to thank God, my family, and my coaches, especially Coach Swopes. They have provided me with the knowledge to get better at tennis and to get better at life,” he said. “They have watched patiently and been with me as I’ve improved.” Whether on the court or beyond, Gus Byrd is determined to keep pushing forward, always striving for the next great moment.
