Nicolet National Bank Senior Spotlight

Parents’ names: Rhonda Danahar, Patrick McDonough
Siblings: Owen McDonough, Maggie McDonough
Position or events: Tennis - 1 doubles
Social Media: @keganmcdonough
Career Highlight: Beating NDA my sophomore year to qualify for state, and then going on to win the first round.

How did you get started playing tennis? Who introduced you to it?
My older brother began playing tennis when I was four years old, and being the annoying little brother I am, decided that I had to also learn how to play tennis just for the sake of competition.

How has the balance between academics and athletics changed for you from freshman to senior year?
I’ve always been involved in a large amount of extracurriculars, though tennis definitely is the most demanding, it takes a lot of time and practice outside of school hours to really get that leg up on the competition.

What is your favorite part about this sport? What is the most challenging part about this sport?

Is there a professional athlete you look up to? If so, why?
Of all the players, I look up to Medvedev the most, he’s currently ranked first on the ATP, he’s a fighter till the bitter end of every match, and he has some pretty lighthearted moments.

What has been your most memorable experience in high school sports so far?
During the state tournament my junior year, I accidentally hit a serve return into the back of my partner’s head, they had to call down the medic on site and go through all the concussion protocol, after all of that, he managed to win the next service game.

What types of courts have you played on and what is your favorite?
I have only ever played on hardcourt, but I think clay would be interesting to try.

Do you have a bucket list goal that pertains to your sport?
My only real goal at the moment is to make it to the top 8 this year at state.

How does it feel as a senior, to look back throughout high school and see your growth (as a person and athlete)? I’ve really become a much more competitive and outgoing person, tennis has helped me grow into more of a leader, and adult.

Do you have any pre-match rituals/routines/superstitions?
This probably doesn’t count as a ritual, but whenever I get the chance, I throw a Cosmic Brownie in my tennis bag and eat it after the first set.

Do you have a mantra/motivational quote/bible verse that helps you with your sport?
I don’t know where I heard it, nor do I know who said it, but it’s stuck with me because it’s short, simple, and straight to the point, “Match isn’t over, focus on the next point, not the last point”

Any memorable coaches or teammates you’d like to shout out?

Any hobbies outside of sports?
I like 3d printing, reading, and videogames.

What is the top song on your workout/warmup playlist?
Mother, by Danzig

Future Plans? (college, major, career, etc.)
I will be attending UW Stout for mechanical engineering.