Shaker's Haejin Lee has tennis skills beyond her years
In many ways, Haejin Lee is your typical 12-year old; somewhat shy and reserved, and with a giggle that comes with youthful exuberance.
In her second season playing for the Shaker varsity, Lee has risen to the No. 1 singles perch for the Blue Bison and, though she may just be beginning to scratch the surface of her potential, has been giving rivals fits this season.
After going unbeaten last season playing the No. 4 singles, Lee has dropped just one match in Suburban Council play this year — to 2014 sectional runner-up Rachel McDonald of Saratoga — and has benefited from a training schedule that includes weekend travel.
What could have been an intimidating situation, still being new to the area and the country, didn't seem to be a problem for Lee, which might help explain her ability to handle the pressures of the sport.
Cuva agrees that the tournament experience Lee is getting in addition to her play at Shaker is a big help in her development.
Sean Martin, a local freelance writer, is a frequent contributor to the Times Union.