Ellie Garcia marks first Gillette athlete to compete at Clemson tennis tournament

Ellie Garcia travels to Clemson University in South Carolina this week to compete in a national tennis tournament 🎾

The Bolts rising senior is one of three girls and three boys who were picked from across the state to represent the Wyoming team. Although she now plays No. 1 singles for Thunder Basin High School, Garcia said she will compete in both singles and doubles matches during her time in South Carolina.

Garcia said she’s a little nervous but mostly excited for the opportunity to travel and play against teams from around the country. She’s especially proud to become the first Gillette player to compete at the tournament.

“It’ll be great to play people from different places with different styles,” she said. “I don’t really have expectations because I don’t know what to expect, but I’m grateful for the opportunity and look forward to hanging out with the others on the team.”

Garcia began her tennis career freshman year, after her friends asked if she wanted to play.

“I said, ‘Oh, sure,’” Garcia recalled.

From that unassuming beginning, she put in time and determination, developing her toolbox and learning from her competitors as she went. Garcia said TBHS Tennis Coach Amy Gorsuch has been instrumental in her development as a player. In a sport where players typically develop their talent at a younger age, Garcia said Gorsuch has always pushed her even when she doubted herself.

Garcia was recognized in Fall of 2023 as a Wyoming Coaches Association All-State Tennis Player and she also competes on the TBHS basketball team.

Safe travels and good luck in South Carolina!