Sports Spotlight: Liam Chartrand
Liam Chartrand is a student-athlete at Saratoga Springs High School and has been on the boys varsity tennis team for 6 years, starting in 7th grade. He’s been captain of the team since his junior year. He’s a member of the National Honors Society, a class officer, and president of the school’s Entrepreneurs Club.
Coach Rich Johns, a former Saratoga Springs teacher and tennis coach for nearly four decades, asked Chartrand about his accomplishments and future plans as part of the “Act With Respect Always” spotlight series.
Q: What kind of pressure do you feel being the captain for the tennis team?
A: I feel pressure to make sure I do not let my teammates down, as being captain means I need to work my best to ensure our team’s success. I lead by example through focus, work ethic, and discipline so my teammates know to do the same.
What kind of modeling do you try to do to be a good leader and teammate?
A: I work to balance both hard work and fun. Being a part of a varsity team is a big commitment, but it also should be fun for those on the team. This balance is fundamental to success in all aspects of sports.
Tell us more about your program that gives free tennis lessons.
A: The idea for Rally for Youth was sparked when I started volunteering at a tennis camp through the Saratoga Springs Recreation Center. Working with kids from ages 6-14, I experienced firsthand the positive impact of learning the sport. When my students called me “Coach,” I felt a joy I hadn’t experienced before. Once the summer program ended, I decided to continue working with my eager players, at no cost. The program has continued since, with six volunteer coaches who work with me and twenty active participants who are growing their love of tennis and their self-confidence. Competing in tennis has always been the part of my life I most enjoyed, and sharing my skills to help others has only magnified my love for the game. After spending ten years of my tennis career on personal achievement and goals, I have found new meaning in empowering kids through tennis—especially those who otherwise would not have the opportunity.
What are your future career plans and goals?
A: I plan to pursue a career in medicine, sparked by my grandfather who had a 5-year long battle with cancer. This battle fueled my drive to try to pursue medical school after college.
