HIGH SCHOOL
Blake started playing tennis at age 3 and played and won his first tournament at age 6. As a varsity tennis player throughout his high school career he has been a major asset to his team. He is the recipient of the 2018 Coach’s Award. His strengths include leading the younger members of the team, maintaining a positive attitude, motivating his peers, and exemplary sportsmanship. Blake has played singles and doubles throughout his varsity career and has secured key wins in both. His singles game has consistent ground strokes, precise footwork, extreme focus, and ability to stay calm in tense situations. His doubles game has great communication, ability to read the ball, strategy to set up his partner, and solid net game.
ACADEMY
Blake Howell was a child prodigy who is now realizing his true potential.
Most recently, he defeated the #4 seed in a MTB ( 10-2) to reach the quarterfinals of the Challenger State Chps. in Rome, Ga. What was most impressive was his opponent was feeling the physical effects of long rallies in 90 degree heat while Blake felt no ill effects whatsoever.
Blake is listed as 5"6"' and 130 lbs., but hits a big ball. He reminds me of ATP pro Diego Schwartzman ; not big in stature but wiry, strong and hits heavy. He can rip crosscourts off both sides all day long off both wings but what is really exceptional is the depth of his groundstrokes. His volleys are solid and his serve reliable. His approach shots are huge , setting up routine placements at the net.
Blake could improve in a few areas : he is a wonderful counter-puncher, but needs to add more defense, because sometimes he finds himself trying to hit passing shots off balls that are behind him or from difficult defensive positions.
His serve is a hard slice, but he needs to direct it to the opponent's weakness more under pressure and swing it wide occasionally in the deuce court. He uses slice on his backhand occasionally, but needs to work on hitting the stroke fluently.
Blake has the perfect match temperament. He fights like a demon every point, regardless of score and never gets down on himself.
Some players have peaked at his age, but I see not only improvement but a desire to improve. I think Blake will play his best tennis in college.
John Irvin PTR-US Hot Shotz Tennis Academy www.irvintennis.com 770-235-6614
