Olivia Brzozowski finds peace in a good book or a classic movie, and plays tennis with a fiery spirit.
She has a full schedule that includes school, her favorite sport and work, and after balancing all of her responsibilities, she takes time out to read or write her own short stories or poems. The Mid Valley senior takes nothing for granted and enjoys life every day.
In her final season on the courts, Brzozowski has a 4-4 overall record heading into the final two weeks. She hopes for a strong finish and momentum for the District 2 Singles Championships.
“This year has been a positive experience,” Brzozowski said. “In years past, I was too hard on myself. I have a more positive outlook and am trying to enjoy my senior year. I never thought I could win some of the matches I have won. It has been a big confidence boost that I am realizing I have.”
Brzozowski played several sports growing up, but took to tennis and embraced learning the techniques and strategies. She was inspired by the success her brother Adam had during his career at Mid Valley, which included being named a Lackawanna League all-star. After a few seasons on the junior high team, she took lessons at Birchwood Tennis & Fitness Club to improve her game.
At Mid Valley, Brzozowski’s coach Emily Messett worked with her on her physical and mental games. Often the coach saw that Brzozowski’s emotions and desire to improve sometimes worked against her game.
“Coach has helped me with tennis so much and with life; I can’t thank her enough,” Brzozowski said. “She always jokes about the pep talks she gives me. I get very emotional when I play. I am very tough on myself. She has given me encouragement and tips to help me stay on the right track. I know that I could not be the person I am today without her in my life.”
Who Brzozowski is today is a strong player at No. 1 singles for the Spartanettes.
She posted wins in key matches against North Pocono and Valley View and helped Mid Valley to its two wins over Western Wayne and Dunmore.
In addition, Brzozowski works at Corky’s Garden Path in Justus. She is also very passionate about reading books. Her favorite is “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley.
“I like classic novels,” Brzozowski said. “I like Mary Shelley and her style of writing. It is interesting to analyze the characters in ‘Frankenstein.’ It holds up today as one of the most interesting stories in our society.”
During her downtime, Brzozowski also does creative writing. Recently, again influenced by her brother who studies film at Montclair State, she took an interest in movie-making and storytelling.
“It is inspiring to see my brother creating his own stories, and that is also something I may want to do with my life,” said Brzozowski, whose favorite movies include “La La Land” and “The Godfather.”
With the season winding down, Brzozowski is focused on her game. Mid Valley has five matches remaining in the league.
Last season, she lost in a play-in match to MMI Prep’s Ava Genetti, 6-2, 7-5, for the 32-player field in the District 2 Class 2A Singles Championships.
Her goal is to play better and win a match.
“I want to have the best record I can achieve,” Brzozowski said. “We had a lot of tough matches to start the season. I want to keep working hard to improve and maintain my positive attitude to do the best I can.”
I am looking forward to districts. I have gotten so close with my teammates. They have become such good friends. I am with my second family, and I am excited. I am going to be confident. I want to get past that first match this year. That is important to me.”
