Nicolet National Bank Senior Spotlight

Parents’ names: Zachary and Jana Graf
Siblings: Tyler (23) and Stefen (20) Graf
Position or events: No. 1 doubles and singles
Social media: @lilliannagraf9

Career Highlight: Winning a doubles State Title my senior year surrounded by family, friends and coaches who have witnessed how much hard work and dedication I have put into tennis.

How did you get started playing your sport(s)?
My mom and two older brothers played tennis, so naturally I wanted to follow in their
footsteps.

What is your favorite part of this sport?

The feeling of hitting a perfect, clean, topspin ball.

What is your favorite part of practice?
Getting to spend time with my doubles partner, and my amazing private coaches who have taught me innumerable life and tennis lessons.

What is the most challenging part of this sport?
Staying positive, composed and focused during matches.

What would you say is your strongest asset on the court?
My serve.

Do you have any pre-game rituals/routines/superstitions?
During matches, I always have to lay my tennis bag down on the ground (not a bench) and if I win the coin-toss I always choose to receive serve first.

What is one thing you’d like to be remembered for after you graduate high school?

I would like to be remembered for my D1 State Title and my high dedication and love for the game of tennis.

Favorite Halloween costume you’ve ever had?
Dorothy from the Wizard of OZ.

Favorite vacation you’ve taken?
Going to New York and Washington D.C.

Favorite restaurant?
Bleu.

Favorite flavor of ice cream?
Mint Oreo.

What is number 1 on your bucket list?

Hiking/backpacking across Europe.

Any hobbies outside of your sport?
Playing piano, scrapbooking, reading and online shopping.

Favorite movie/TV show?
Little Women (2019 version) or Gilmore Girls.

Looking forward to most after high school?
Getting to meet new people and form new friendships in college.

Any memorable coaches or teammates you’d like to shout out?
I especially want to shout out Coach Stuart Nett and Bobby Hagenow who have been with me since the beginning, but also Selin and Jordan, who helped prepare me the past couple months and I can’t forget my incredible doubles partner Maria.

Future Plans? (college, major, career, etc.)
I plan to attend UW-Madison in the fall of 2027 and study something in medicine.