(Editor's Note: St. Francis School sixth-grader Wyatt DeMulling earned enough points in local tournaments to receive a national ranking and be invited to a national tournament last month in Claremont, California.)

Wow, what an experience, from my first ball being hit to my last ball being hit it was awesome.

The tournament site was incredible-19 acres of beautiful grounds and 28 outdoor tennis courts. They were the best outdoor courts I have ever played on. It was 75-85 degrees every day so it was hot on the tennis courts. I had to drink lots of water and sports drinks.

I played three matches and all of them were good matches. I did not win, but learned a lot. I ended the tournament in 54th place nationally.

It's always great when you have the best players playing in a tournament because it builds rivalries and it makes you play harder and better.

I walk away knowing I will only get better. This tournament helped me see that I have many things yet to achieve in my tennis. I will practice harder than ever to get ready for my next national tournament and push my talent to the limits.

Wyatt DeMulling
Burien