Fifth in State, First in Grit

Four Hours of Grit and Grace

Four hours. That’s how long freshman Hudson Tseng’s marathon match lasted against a senior at the IHSA State Tennis Tournament. The late afternoon sun beat down relentlessly on the courts, making every movement heavier and each breath a little harder to catch. His muscles burned with every sprint and every swing, but Hudson’s focus never faltered.

“Matches like that are tough, but I just try to stay calm and take it one point at a time,” Hudson said. “I remind myself, it’s not about the score at the moment — it’s about playing my best on each point.”

Shot after shot, point after point, he pushed through exhaustion and pressure, refusing to let either break his concentration. When the final point was won, the crowd erupted, and Hudson punched his ticket deeper into the tournament — making Timothy Christian history— and he was the only freshman to reach the quarterfinals across both Class 1A and 2A divisions.

A Tournament Full of Surprises

After upsetting seeds #1 and #2, and winning sectionals, Hudson was the 8th seed going into the state tournament but was not expected to get on the podium. Many of his opponents were seasoned upperclassmen—some with multiple state appearances under their belts. But match after match, Hudson stunned higher-seeded players with his composure and consistency.

“The energy was intense,” Hudson recalled. “There’s this pressure you feel when you’re playing upperclassmen who’ve been at this level for years. But I tried not to think about that — I focused on my game and stayed in the moment.”

The atmosphere on the courts was electric—every game felt like a battle, every point fought with fierce determination. “It was a mental game as much as physical,” he said. “Sometimes you have to outthink your opponent, not just outrun them.”

By the end of the tournament, Hudson finished 5th in the state—a historic achievement for Timothy.

A Passion That Started Early

Hudson’s love for tennis began long before the bright lights of the state tournament. At just three years old, he picked up his first racket at a local tennis club — more curious than coordinated — chasing balls around with a toddler’s wide-eyed enthusiasm. “I didn’t really know what I was doing back then,” Hudson laughed. “I just loved hitting the ball and running around. It was fun!”

Those early moments weren’t about winning or losing but about the simple joy of the game. Over time, that joy grew into a deep passion that shaped both his character and athleticism.

Guided by Family and Faith

Behind Hudson’s success is a strong support system, especially his mother, a former varsity tennis player who has encouraged him every step of the way. “She helps me a lot,” Hudson said. 

His mom, Andi, shared, “Watching Hudson grow as a player and as a person this year has been incredible. He’s learning how to manage pressure and stay humble, which is just as important as his strokes.”

Hudson also credits his faith as a vital part of how he approaches tennis and life. Growing up in a Christ-centered community at Timothy Christian Schools, he leans on his beliefs to stay grounded and positive, no matter the outcome. “I try to be a good witness for Christ on the court,” he explained. “When I’m nervous or frustrated, I try to stay calm and remember why I play — because I love the game.”

“The coaches don’t just focus on tennis skills — they care about Hudson’s growth as a whole person.”

Beyond the School Season

Hudson’s commitment to tennis extends well beyond the high school season. He competes year-round in USTA tournaments across the Midwest, facing a variety of opponents that sharpen his skills and build his resilience. That hard work has earned him a ranking among the state’s top junior players—a reflection of both talent and dedication.

“Playing USTA tournaments really helps me get better,” he said. “I get to play against a lot of different people, which makes me more adaptable. Every match teaches me something new.”

Balancing Life on and off the Court

Juggling a demanding academic schedule alongside the intensity of high-level competition isn’t easy, especially for a freshman. But Hudson credits his family, coaches, and teammates for helping him find balance.

“The team is really supportive,” he said. “We cheer each other on, even in singles matches. Coach Rick cares about his players. It feels like we’re all in this together.”

His mom agreed, “The community at Timothy Christian has been amazing. Coach Rick McLean doesn't just focus on tennis skills — he cares about Hudson’s growth as a whole person.”

Humility in Victory and Growth

Despite the spotlight on his breakthrough season, Hudson remains humble and focused on growth. “Every match is a learning experience,” he said. “I’m always trying to improve—whether it’s my technique, strategy, or mental toughness.”

With an eye on next season, Hudson is already setting new goals. “I do have my sights on a state championship,” Hudson said. “It definitely requires a lot of hard work and determination. You really have to want that first place — if you don’t want it, you’re not going to get it.”