Home » Sports » Nicolet National Bank Senior Spotlight: Jackson Harpt – De Pere boys’ tennis

Nicolet National Bank Senior Spotlight: Jackson Harpt – De Pere boys’ tennis

Harpt

Harpt
Jackson Harpt is a senior member of the De Pere boys’ tennis team. Submitted Photo

By Murray Gleffe
Correspondent


Name: Jackson Harpt

Nickname: Jack

School: De Pere

Sport: Boys’ tennis

Jackson Harpt, a senior at De Pere, is half of the successful No. 1 doubles duo for the Redbirds.

He said his favorite type of music is R&B (rhythm and blues) and jazz.

Harpt said his favorite professional tennis player is Rafael Nadal because he fights hard, and his longevity is remarkable.

You made it to the Round of 16 at state your junior season and lost to the eventual champions. Talk about your goals this season with a new partner.

“We’re in a great situation overall as a team this year. The guys are having fun, and we’re solid. My primary goal is to help get these guys to team state and hopefully make some noise.”

A tweener or a majestic drop shot that spins back on your side?

“A tweener. My teammates would be proud because I can’t hit one to save my life.”

Talk about the best tennis match you’ve played since your freshman year. 

“This year against Xavier’s No. 1 doubles team. My partner and I were in tune all day. Having success against a good team made it better.”

Would you rather run up the Lambeau Experience Hill or climb Triangle Hill at Baird’s Creek?

“Lambeau Experience Hill because it feels like climbing into the sky.”

If you could be somebody for a day, who would it be? 

“(Actor) Ryan Reynolds.”

Is a missed overhead or a shanked shot on top of the net more embarrassing?

“A shanked shot on top of the net. I’ve gotten used to missing overheads over the years.”

Which teammate would excel in a match broadcast on ESPN?

“Brett Daniels because he loves the spotlight and always rises up in big moments.”

What’s something about you most people don’t know?

“I’m a big nature guy, and I hope to live near the ocean someday.”

What are your college aspirations?

“I plan on attending the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater this fall to pursue a four-year degree in finance/banking.”

If you could magically do one thing better in tennis, what would it be?

“Hitting a better flat serve.”

Talk about a few things that stood out during your childhood.

“Going to conventions and collectible shows across the state with my dad, as well as staying up late in the summers.”

Do you get fired up or stay calm during a match?

“I get fired up, but I try to use it in a positive way to motivate myself and my partner.”

If you could choose any pet to have at your house, what would it be?

“Cats, or dogs the size of cats.”

How do you stay in a match when your doubles partner struggles?

“Everyone makes mistakes, but it’s important to stay positive. My partner and I both have rough patches, but we support each other and eventually find our rhythm.”

What’s been the best court you’ve played on regarding ambience?

“My first high school match was at Oconomowoc, and they have some beautiful courts.”

Multiple aces in a match or a groundstroke around the net post for a winner?

“Groundstroke around the net post because the energy and momentum from that shot may end the match by itself.”

Miami Masters or Indian Wells for a day?

“Indian Wells. I love the atmosphere and that region in general.”

Which 1980s TV show rerun is a favorite?

“The Simpsons.”

Favorite thing to do in summer?

“Hang out with friends and enjoy the weather.”

Favorite social media follow?

“(Soccer player) Christiano Ronaldo.”

If you could take off on a plane tomorrow and go anywhere in the world, where would it be?

“Melbourne, Australia, because the Australian Open has such a happy atmosphere.”

What’s your farewell message to your underclassmen tennis players?

“You guys have a good future ahead of you. I expect great things from this team in the next few years, and I hope you continue to cement the culture we’ve built together.”

Facebook Comments
Scroll to Top