Coming into the 2023 season the Chargers may have the best No. 1 doubles team in the state. Gray Ferguson and teammate Emerson Ritenour were crowned No. 2 doubles champions in 2021 and as juniors they are looking to regain the title of champion.
Head coach Mike Bischoff led the team to a Class 5A state title last season and he had this to say about Ferguson and his contributions to the team.
“Gray is always present in everything we do. Whether it’s practice, a match he’s playing, or watching one of his teammates, he is always giving his full attention. It’s something that all of the other players notice and try to follow,” said Bischoff.
Ferguson said being on the team and part of the athletic program at Heritage Hall is a big motivator.
“Playing for Heritage Hall motivates me. Getting the opportunity to play for such a great program really makes me strive for greatness each and every year,” said Ferguson.
This season Ferguson and his teammates are focused on defending their team title. Having experienced success in the past, Ferguson is looking to leave his stamp on the program as a champion in each of his four years of high school.
“Winning individual state my freshman year, and then winning state as a team my sophomore year ¬– it was a dream come true,” said Ferguson. “It has taken a lot. All the time spent on the court and in the classroom. Playing lots of tournaments while practicing multiple hours a day. I love all of my teammates because we all push each other to make each other better. It means the world to represent Heritage Hall. Playing for a historic program with lots of excellence. Growing up going to HH I have dreamt of playing with Chargers on my shirt so it’s a dream come true.”
Ferguson said his biggest influence in his life is his grandfather.
“My grandpa has been one of my biggest role models. He has always been here for me and has always taught me to keep pushing and never back down,” said Ferguson.
The junior is involved in other activities outside of tennis. He currently serves on the student council, is involved in the Spanish Club and is the student section leader at other games.
