Sports Spotlight: Sophia Felderman

BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) – Since starting school in the first grade, Mandan’s Sophia Felderman has played varsity tennis for half of that time.

The Braves standout is now a senior and she’s the defending state singles champion.

“We kind of knew when she was young she’d be cracking that varsity line-up as a 7th grader though we had a pretty good team that year,” said Paul Christen, Mandan tennis coach.

“I’ve been playing tennis since I was three. I got put into lessons just because my mom played so I’ve always kind of been in tennis,” said Sophia Felderman, Mandan senior.

Sophia is following in the Mandan tennis footsteps of her sister.

“Elizabeth played the biggest role in my tennis life. She was always someone I looked up to and she was always someone I could look to to play with. She was always down to go play with me. She was just a big part in growing up I’d say.” said Felderman.

Elizabeth used to hold the Braves all-time record for most wins with 165. Sophia passed her by going 7-0 at the West Region for a total of 167.

Her sister plays in college at Mankato. Felderman plans to play at MSU-Moorhead next year.

“Her biggest weapon is her backhand because at times you don’t know where she’s hitting it. She can hit it cross court. She can hit it down the line and she disguises it really well,” said Christen.

“I try to work the point as long as possible but I definitely am not a stay in a rally point a long, long time. I like to finish the point and be aggressive when I can and take advantage of all of the short shots I can get,” said Felderman.

Nobody hit more good shots in the state tournament than Felderman did last year. This week she’s out to do it again.

“Last year was great. I’m just happy I can go in with a really good mindset like I did last year, win of lose I’ve worked really hard and I hope all of that hard work pays off,” said Felderman.

Sophia also expanded beyond tennis in her senior year.

She ran cross country for the first time. She did the musical for the first time and she’s the Future Business Leaders of American state champion as well.

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