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05/23/2018 12:00 AMHigh-school student-athletes typically have a lot on their plate, and Praneeth Ganedi is one of the people who sets the standard, according to Branford boys’ tennis coach Matt Fraenza. Praneeth, a junior, is a member of the Hornets’ boys’ soccer and tennis squads who takes Advanced Placement classes and is also part of several other school and community programs.
Praneeth has been a varsity contributor for both of his teams since his freshman year. As a member of the soccer squad, Praneeth took over as the Hornets’ starting goalie last fall and helped take the team to Class L state quarterfinals.
“I really wanted to be a goalie, because I felt it was a special position. You’re responsible for any tough, challenging matches,” Praneeth says. “As a goalie, you can win or lose any crucial match. The whole match is on you making those big-time saves.”
Praneeth’s father and brother both play tennis, so Praneeth tagged along and grew up learning the sport from a young age. He never had formal lessons, but always enjoyed his time on the court. Praneeth’s experience allowed him to step onto Branford’s varsity team and compete right away.
“I think that playing for such a long time, I had more experience than other players on the team,” says Praneeth. “I played a lot on the baseline, so my ground strokes are sound. That helped develop my game for singles rather than doubles.”
Praneeth has played all four singles positions throughout his three seasons with the Hornets. He currently plays No. 2 singles and has a record of 12-5 entering the final week of the regular season. Praneeth says there’s quite a difference competing in the top half of the singles lineup.
“I think at 3 and 4 singles, most of the players are really consistent. It’s important to not overhit ground strokes and keep the ball in play, because the game is still developing,” says Praneeth. “At 1 and 2 singles is when guys have more power and topspin. Shot selection is more important, and you have to be smart when you play and move up to the net whenever possible.”
Coach Fraenza loves the energy that Praneeth brings between the baselines. Fraenza says it’s impressive that Praneeth has progressed into a top-tier player, especially since he’s involved in other athletic endeavors.
“He’s different from other kids at that top level, where usually you see them specializing in tennis,” says Fraenza. “With Praneeth, you see a throwback player who played a little bit growing up and is fine-tuning his game during the season. His offseasons are so busy with other sports, so it’s nice to see.”
Praneeth emphasizes consistency when it comes to his style of play. He doesn’t like giving points away, and so Praneeth focuses on placing his shots right where they need to be throughout a match. Praneeth also uses his endurance to his advantage and has no problem waiting out his opponents, so that they’ll make the first mistake.
“I try to place my shots in the corners and wait for a short ball to attack it. When I get one, I move up to the net and close out the point,” he says. “Consistency is the main part of my game, because it doesn’t make you lose points based on your mistakes. Also, good footwork is very important to get to the balls properly and set up your shot.”
Praneeth knows there are still some things he needs to improve on, such as his serve. Still, he’s certainly happy to have reached double-digit victories this spring, while helping the Hornets do the same.
“I think it was a great season. I think I won all the matches I should win and gave good fights to harder teams like Fairfield Prep. I definitely think I could’ve done better, but overall, it was a great season to look upon and I showed great improvement from last year,” says Praneeth. “There is still more to improve and all athletes strive to keep getting better. I’ll surely put in the hard work to keep getting better. I’ll never be satisfied with my performance, because there is always something to improve upon.”