Name: Malcolm Ireland
Age: 18
School/Grade: West Milford High School, Grade 12
Activity/Sport: Tennis
This week we Take Five with Malcolm Ireland, a senior at West Milford High School and a member of the tennis team. Malcolm knows the value of hard work - on and off the court - and he spends his free time pretty constructively. Be sure to go to our Web site, westmilfordmessenger.com, for our bonus five with Malcolm.
1. How did you get involved with tennis?
I started playing tennis with my cousin during the summer before freshman year and he told me I was pretty good. Since tennis didn’t conflict with basketball, I decided to try out for the team freshman year. Since then I haven’t looked back.
2. Who is your biggest inspiration?
I would have to say my biggest inspiration is Kevin Durant because of the way he handles himself on and off the court. I like how he lets his game do the talking and that’s exactly what I try to do when I play any sport.
3. What would most people be surprised to know about tennis?
I think people would be surprised that tennis actually takes a lot of stamina. Between all of the short burst running, repetitive swings and serves, and sometimes intense heat, it requires some good stamina.
9. What is your favorite movie, book or character? Why?
My all time favorite movie franchise is Fast and Furious. I would have to say the sixth one is my favorite. I have enjoyed seeing where the characters started and where they are now, along with the plot twists in the movies that always keep me on my toes. Probably my favorite thing about the franchise has to be the focus on family and that no one should turn their back on family.
10. Share something no one knows about you.
Something no one knows about me, aside from a couple friends and family is that I practice playing piano in my spare time.
A little music is a great way to balance things out, Malcolm! Do you know a young person who should be featured here? Let us know at njoffice@strausnews.com. We want to feature all of the great kids in the township.
Bonus five
5. Name three things you would bring with you if you were on a deserted island?
Three things I would bring with me if I were on a deserted island would be a survival kit, water and a friend so I don’t go insane.
6. Share a favorite moment with your team.
I remember freshman year we had one of my teammates' hats and on the bus ride home he realized he didn’t have it. My teammate called my name and unexpectedly threw the hat to me. Not knowing it was coming my way, I missed the hat and it flew out the bus window.
4. Who is your favorite teacher of all time? Why?
My favorite teacher of all time has to be Mrs. Petrosillo. I had her freshman year and I have her this year for journalism. She is a very laid back teacher especially when you get your work done on time. She also cares about her students; she is always interested to hear about what is going on in your life outside of the classroom.
7. What does being a Highlander mean to you?
I think being a Highlander means to be respectful to others and be proud of your school. When I am out and about I know that when I’m wearing a school shirt or town colors that I am representing not only myself, but the other people from school as well and I think it is good to make the right impression.
8. What do you do with your time, when you are not playing tennis?
When I’m not playing tennis I will go bowling, play basketball, go to the driving range or play a board game with friends and family.