Sports Spotlight - Windermere Observer: Juan Bianchi

Juan Bianchi has had quite a career for the Olympia High boys tennis team. The Titans made it all the way to the state quarterfinals this spring, and as the team’s Line 1, Bianchi compiled a perfect 17-0 record in singles play. In his two years with the program, he has a combined record of 32-1.

What has it been like having been to state in consecutive years as a freshman and sophomore with Olympia?

It’s been a great experience. I mean, I’ve had fun every single match. With the guys next to me, always supporting, it’s great fun.

How far back does your tennis career go, and when did it begin to accelerate?

I’ve been playing since I was 3, so it’s been 13 years now. Probably about seventh or eighth grade is when my game really started to take off.

What do you enjoy about playing the varsity game with your teammates as opposed to playing as an individual on the travel circuits?

It’s great — there’s so much support. We don’t play as tennis players; we play as a family when we play together. It’s always fun.

What is the best tennis-related advice you have received?

Just to play for fun — at this point in my career, at least, it’s not a job. My dad always tells me to just enjoy it.

What did you learn from former Olympia standout and current Penn player Kaden Funk while you were teammates?

He never took anything for granted, every point. Even if we were down and about to lose, he was still fighting.

What are you hoping to study in college?

I’m thinking of engineering. I’m not quite sure what area yet, but that’s the goal.

What do you like to do with your free time?

I’m a sports guy. Anything that relates to any type of sport.

Which sports, apart from tennis, do you follow the most closely?

Baseball.

Which team is your favorite and who is your favorite player?

The Yankees and Derek Jeter.

Which young, up-and-coming baseball player do you enjoy watching the most?

Bryce Harper, of the Washington Nationals. He’s fun to watch and plays with a lot of energy out there.

What are you looking forward to the most about your summer vacation?

Playing some good tournaments, and I might go play outside of the country in Costa Rica or Puerto Rico.