Otto sets sights higher

Elise Otto has a goal, and a relatively simple one at that.

After reaching the consolation semifinals of the girls State 4A tennis championships last season, Otto wants to bring home a trophy.

“Last year I just finished right out of placing,” the Lewis and Clark junior said. “I would really like to place this year. I also want to make it to the semis. It’s a little higher, but it’s a realistic goal.”

Her experience at state last season has given Otto more motivation to exceed last year’s performance.

“Last year I was excited to be going to state,” said Otto, who beat fellow state participant Katie Griffith of Ferris to win the regional tournament last weekend. “This year I’d like to make a little more of an impact.”

Her coach, John Kenlein, believes Otto has the stuff to do it.

”(Elise) has a well-developed, all-around game,” Kenlein said. “She put in a solid district and regional tournament. … She is playing the best tennis of the year right now.”

But Otto has her work cut out for her. Her first-round opponent, freshman Neil Shonnard, comes from Bellarmine Prep, a school that consistently sends forth strong competitors.

Still, Otto is confident.

“Bellarmine Prep turns out real good players,” she said. “But I think as long as I play my game and get in a good warm up, I should at least play well in the first round.”