Nithin Kota is an 11th-grade student at Urbana High School. He is one of the members of the Urbana tennis team. As a student, Nithin works on maintaining strong grades and navigating the pressures of junior year. As an athlete, he focuses on anchoring his tennis team with an undefeated streak he intends to protect for the rest of the season.

Nithin has spent his high school years developing his serve, which he refers to as his special craft. Powerful, reliable, and often the tonesetter for his matches. This is how he is so consistent, like the tide, night in and night out. His style is inspired by none other than Roger Federer, a player he admires for his poise and aesthetic grace. Nithin strives to mirror that same confidence every time he steps onto the court.

Nithin contributes his success to his teammates as well. His most liked teammate, Karthik Menon, earns that title because “he makes me smile.” Some of Nithin’s favorite memories aren’t from the matches themselves but from the moments after, like playing basketball in the auxiliary gym with teammates after games, unwinding together as a team. These moments have helped them build chemistry throughout the year, which has had an impact on their 12-0 record.

As the season progresses, Nithin’s goals remain ambitious and grounded: stay undefeated, help the team reach states, and ultimately bring home a championship. Off the court, he enjoys cooking, spending time with friends, and, as he puts it, “eating,” which is a hobby every student athlete can appreciate.

Looking ahead, Nithin plans to attend a four‑year college, major in biology, and maybe even continue playing tennis at the next level. For now, though, he’s focused on the present, the competition, the camaraderie, and the drive to finish the season strong.