Rising Star: Brynn Steven carries family tradition to 5A state tennis

WICHITA, Kan. (Catch it Kansas) - The Steven family is no stranger to the tennis courts of Wichita. In just this generation alone, a dozen of them have come through the high school ranks.

Once staples at Kapaun Mt. Carmel, the most recent generation has enjoyed success under Darren Huslig at Bishop Carroll. This weekend, Brynn Steven, a junior, has a chance to make history no female in the family has: Win a singles state championship in 5A.

With many family members part of recent state championship teams at Carroll, they have enjoyed team and doubles success. Having seen it all, she doesn’t feel any extra weight.

“No, it’s not pressure,” Brynn said. “Some people may look at it as pressure, but it’s just a really good support system and I know they’re always in my corner. So it’s great.”

And she is no stranger to the stage. She has advanced to the semifinals in each of her first two seasons. She had to sit out most of the summer due to a back injury, but never doubted herself to be able to return to full strength this fall.

“She’s competed well all the years so far, but her confidence has grown each year,” Huslig said, “and she’s putting more pressure on her opponents.”

Brynn will compete at the 5A state tournament in Andover this weekend, alongside her cousin, Logan Jagolinzer, who also advanced out of arguably the toughest regional in 5A.

“I wanna be able to support my school and my team and my coaches really well,” Brynn said. “I’m looking forward to some good competition and a good weekend. I can’t wait to see what it holds.”

Copyright 2022 Catch it Kansas. All rights reserved.