Channelview September 2025

Tennis

\\ By Matthew Ogle AVALOS EMBRACING THE “BATTLE” OF THE TENNIS COURT CHA L L E NG E UP TO THE

but as a tone-setter. Whether she’s leading drills at practice or analyzing matches from the sidelines, her investment in the game runs deep. “Of course playing is my favorite, but I do enjoy watching others compete – from people around my age or the professionals,” she said. “I think you can learn something from both.” As the school year unfolds, Avalos isn’t chasing the spotlight — but her presence continues to grow. For Channelview, that may be exactly what sets the stage for a strong run.

she said. “In most sports, there are teammates to lean on. But with tennis, you’re basically out there by yourself. So, you need to build up some confidence to overcome that.” Yet for all the pressure the sport brings, Avalos finds her motivation in the moments that push her the most. “It’s the battle – whether I win or lose – and the feeling that I get when I’m under that pressure. Those moments can show you what you’re capable of.” Channelview will be looking to Avalos to anchor the team again this fall — not only as a competitor,

and father – teaching me how to play,” she shared. “From there, it just stuck with me. I tried several other sports but the only one that really clicked was tennis.” That early introduction has since evolved into something more personal — a commitment to competing, improving, and testing her limits. While she names Serena and Venus Williams as longtime inspirations, Avalos has carved her own approach, fully aware of the sport’s demands. “I think the most challenging part of tennis is getting mentally prepared,”

IN A GAME WHERE CONFIDENCE IS TESTED ONE POINT AT A TIME, ELIZA AVALOS HAS LEARNED TO FIND CLARITY IN THE CHAOS. Now a junior at Channelview High, Avalos has emerged as a standout competitor in Coach Charles Smoke’s tennis program — not just for her growing reputation, but for the mental maturity and consistency she brings to the court. For Avalos, tennis isn’t a seasonal pursuit. It’s a year-round rhythm shaped by years of dedication — and lineage. “It began with my family – specifically, my grandfather

cvisd.org // SEPT 2025 // CHANNELVIEW ISD // 17