Cadet Dempsey Breaks 30-Year-Old Record for Career Tennis Wins

On April 24, 2023, Cadet Nathan Dempsey, a Missouri Military Academy (MMA) high school junior from Colleyville, Texas, recorded his 49th and 50th career wins in competition against Troy Buchanan High School. He earned the wins in dominant fashion, winning his singles match 8-0 and his doubles match 8-0. With those wins, he broke the Academy’s record career wins, previously held by Francisco Arias '92 (48 career wins). 

Dempsey has attended MMA since spring 2019. As a freshman, he earned 12 varsity wins and 28 wins as a sophomore (earning post-season MVP). He has been playing tennis for approximately six years. 

While he says his goal for the 2023 season is to accomplish as many wins as possible, he also appreciates the lessons learned in losing.

 “Losing is a part of winning,” Dempsey says. “Losing is just as important as winning — to be able to learn as much as possible is a rewarding feeling.”

Reflecting on what he enjoys the most about playing for the Colonels tennis team, he values support from his teammates. 

“I enjoy the friendships that come out of the tennis season,” says Dempsey. “Although tennis may be called an individual sport, it’s nice to have teammates cheering you on as well as helping you get better throughout the season.”

As of 24 April 2023, Cadet Samuel Way, has also tied the previous school record with 48 wins, and Cadet Gorka Yarte-Zertuche is on the hunt for the record with 42 wins. 

“It will be fun watching these three competing for the rest of the season,” says Colonels tennis coach Brad Smith.

Dempsey has his sights set on a state medal.

“I'd like to win a state championship in my senior year or break the state record for tennis career wins although I have a lot more to learn on the road ahead,” he says.