SHS Senior Dean Lockhart signs to play tennis at Delta State University
Starkville High School Tennis standout, Dean Lockhart, has signed to play tennis at the collegiate level at Delta State University. Lockhart announced his decision at a signing ceremony on December 10 alongside his family, teammates as well as Jacket Head Tennis Coach Vanessa Shaffer, and Delta State Head Tennis Coach Will Irvin. He plans to pursue aviation along with playing tennis.
Lockhart has been a consistent high performer on the courts for the Jackets, and advanced to the Round of 16 at the Mississippi State closed championships in May. He is set to begin his senior season with the Jackets and is already focused on training.
"I really appreciate Dean's effort, his work ethic, and his craft for tennis" said Coach Vanessa Shaffer. "It has brought him to this moment and this place to succeed and excel in whatever he decides to do. I feel like he is a big part of why our team has done so well and why we have reached to a high level as our record goes. We can always depend on Dean."
Shaffer said she thought a large part of Lockhart's success comes from his commitment to training in the off-season. She believes this work ethic and commitment to improving will help him success at the next level both academically and as a tennis player.
Lockhart gave special appreciation to his parents during the signing event.
"I want to thank my parents," he said. "Tennis isn't cheap, traveling around, paying for hotels, lessons, balls and new rackets. I couldn't have done it without them."
Lockhart's mother, Cindy, recognized Coach Shaffer for her encouragement and training with Dean as well as her efforts to grow the tennis culture in Starkville.
"I truly appreciate her passion for tennis, hanging in with us over the years and really challenging Dean to set goals and excel each year at each step, not give up and keep at it," she said.
Jacket Tennis will open its season in February on newly renovated tennis courts, a joint project with the City of Starkville, the Starkville Oktibbeha Consolidated School District, and utilizing funds raised through the Starkville Community Foundation.
