For the past three years, Ezra Shensa has played a critical role on the Foxes boys tennis team as part of the top doubles duo. Last year, Ezra and fellow senior Mason Friday finished the season as the section doubles runner-up. This year, Ezra finally achieved his goal of making the singles lineup and now holds the No. 2 spot. His transition has significantly impacted both his personal game and the team, which, is 10-0 overall.
“It’s been both exciting and challenging,” says the senior. “Singles is a completely different game as compared to doubles. I’ve had to adjust my strategy, endurance, and mindset. I have to prepare more mentally because I don’t have a partner to help me through tough points. I also focus a lot more on endurance and shot placement since there’s a lot more court to cover. Since singles matches tend to be longer and more physically demanding, my fitness has also improved.”
While Ezra acknowledges the learning curve, he has embraced the process. “I think I’m improving with each match and learning a lot along the way.”
More Than Just a Tennis Transition
Ezra’s move from doubles to singles isn’t the only adjustment he’s facing this season. During the offseason, he was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes – a life-changing condition that requires careful and diligent management.
Before stepping back on the court, Ezra had to learn how to regulate his nutrition to stabilize his energy levels and ensure his blood sugar remains in check. He frequently monitors his levels, especially during and after matches and sets.
“What is normally the ‘flow state’ drug for most players is a dangerous feeling I have to suppress to keep my blood sugar level stable,” Ezra explains. “More often than not, it’s high during a match due to the adrenaline rush released from the competitive environment.”
It’s a constant balance of monitoring, but it hasn’t slowed him down on the court.
Competitive Nature
Even after missing so much tennis, Ezra quickly resumed his rhythm. It was a short learning period, though, as he only started playing again right before the season started. His consistency and movement continue to be strengths for him, as is his ability to get balls back and deep. He’s also known for his consistency and problem-solving abilities.
“I want to make my opponents work for every point, and I’m willing to stay there all day if that’s what it takes to win,” says Ezra, who has earned a dean’s scholarship to the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University and will enroll there in the fall.
Two areas Ezra is determined to improve in his final year of high school are weaponizing his serve and becoming more aggressive on short balls.
“Ezra has done the work to improve his game and earned his role on the team,” head coach Alex Slezak says of his four-year letter winner. “He has improved in all aspects of his tennis game, grown physically bigger and stronger, and matured mentally.”
Raising Awareness Beyond the Court
Ezra is a quiet individual who doesn’t seek the spotlight, but he feels strongly about raising awareness for the disease and connecting with others facing similar challenges. Determined to move forward positively, he now creates videos and photographs for his unique Instagram and TikTok accounts, both under the handle @ezraoninsulin.
“One thing people don’t realize about managing Type 1 diabetes while playing a sport is that it’s a constant balance of monitoring,” he says. “It’s challenging, but it’s made me more disciplined both on and off the court.”
Coach Slezak says Ezra serves as an inspiration.
“Ezra is just an exemplary young man and a fantastic role model for others,” he says. “I know he has a bright future.”