Thomas Jefferson High School senior Ankit Gowda, tennis, is the Federal Way Mirror Male Athlete of the Week for Sept. 30.

Q: What is your favorite subject/class in school?

A: Math – calculus with Mr. Norris.

Q: What additional activities/hobbies do you enjoy?

A: Playing piano, basketball.

Q: Person who has helped you succeed the most?

A: Mr. Norris. He emphasizes hard work.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve been given when to comes to your sport?

A: That it’s a team game! Focus on what you can control and your teammate will focus on what they can control. Often, it’s a recipe for success.

Q: Describe your pregame ritual and your favorite post-game meal:

A: Before a match, I tie my head band twice. Post-game meal: Dairy Queen Blizzard.

Q: Song you currently can’t stop listening to?

A: “Bad Habits” by Steve Lacy.

From the sidelines: Thomas Jefferson High School senior tennis captain Ankit Gowda holds a 4.0 GPA and is a full IB scholar. He is 3-0 as of the week of Sept. 26 and is 7-1 overall.