Carson Dyess, Randall tennis, Sr.
On the court: Randall has gone undefeated this season and Dyess best epitomizes why. In singles play through the end of last week, Dyess was a flawless 24-0 and in doubles, Dyess has paired with teammate Bryson Shelton to go 24-3. Randall swept a pair of opponents last week to reach this week’s Region I-4A team quarterfinals, beating both Iowa Park and Brock in 19-0 whitewashes. Dyess easily accounted for four of those wins in singles and doubles. In singles, Dyess beat Iowa Park’s Nate Price 6-0, 6-1 and beat Brock’s Kellen Williams 6-0, 6-2. Dyess and Shelton also swept both their doubles matches as Randall was so dominant that it didn’t lose a single set-in singles or doubles last week. With Dyess setting the pace, it’s no wonder Randall was unbeaten through 30 matches and ranked No. 1 in the state and had a shot to bring home a state team championship.
Coach Darby Norman: “He’s been good forever. He started playing tennis really young and had some people who encouraged and pushed him, then he kind of got burned out on it. When he came to Randall, he kind of got his love back for tennis. This last year he dedicated himself to getting better this summer and working on his singles game. His main thing that I’m most impressed with is he’s learned how to be a leader for our team. He took some kids under his wing this summer and played in some tournaments with them. We’ve always had depth but to have lead dogs at the top of your pack makes your life a lot easier. You know he’s going to take care of business and we’re not going to have to spend a whole lot of time on his court. When he and Ella Hester, our No. 1 girls singles player, win their singles and doubles matches that’s a quick four points.”
Dyess: “I think the team is a big motivation for me and being a leader on this team gives me chance to set an example for everyone else. The best way of doing that is by winning and setting the tone for the team, and hopefully they follow along and win as well. I try not to think about (being unbeaten) when I’m playing, but I do like to see that my record is 24-0. Before I go on the court, I think it’s another use of motivation. Throughout my high school career, I think I’ve always enjoyed playing in the playoffs because there’s a little more meaning to it. Every match could be your last match and I like to embrace that. With the target on my back I think that’s just a good challenge for me. If anyone wants to come get it, they can come try to take it from me. My most improved aspect has probably been my mental toughness on the court. Tennis is you’re out there by yourself and staying positive on the court is a big part of my game.”
About Dyess
Favorite band or musician: J Cole
Favorite social media platform: Snapchat
Favorite athlete: Nick Kurios
Bet you didn’t know: Can juggle
Parents: Wesley and Susan Dyess
