Student Athlete of the Week – Bhargav Jakkaraju

Palm Desert’s boys tennis player Bhargav Jakkaraju is this week’s student-athlete of the week.

Playing on the varsity team his freshman year, coaches and teammates noticed that Jakkaraju was more than an athlete; he was a student of the game.

“He has really matured very much. He started playing for me as a freshman. In fact, as a freshman, he played number one for me,” Palm Desert boys tennis coach Pius Mozia said. “I like his tenacity, I like his determination, and I like his enthusiasm for the sport. Most importantly, he is a good student.”

As a competitor who thrives to win, Jakkaraju’s motivation to improve is due to the people around him.

“Well, I got a lot of good players on this team and to keep up with,” Jakkaraju said. “I started playing a lot better every day, and that competition really drives me to try to play better.”

Developing a strong bond with the rest of the team, they all use their off-the-court relationship to build a greater one when competing.

“We both push each other,” senior Ashkon Siami said. We always try, and we push each other just to do our best. I think that’s a great bond for us to have as captains. “

As Jakkaragu wants to continue to play tennis at the next level at a four-year university, his goal is not out of reach because of his compassion and determination.

We are always looking for Student-Athlete of the Week nominations. If you know a senior who should be featured next, be sure to contact the KESQ sports department.

The Student-Athlete of the Week segment airs every Tuesday.