Huinker Takes Hard-Fought Experience From Decorah High to Luther College

Decorah Vikings win, City Council votes, New Referenda on the ballot — we're the one telling Decorah's story. Donate now. DECORAH — A two-and-a-half-hour-long tennis match is the equivalent of a five-hour long football game or a 16-inning baseball game. Two-and-a-half hours is the run-time for the movie "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone," or a trip to the Minneapolis airport. In other words, buckle in. It's going to be a long drive. Despite that, one of Olivia Huinker's fondest memories of competing as a tennis player at Decorah High School is a two-and-a-half-hour-long singles match at state her senior year. She and her opponent were evenly matched, and the match kept getting extended because of the fierce competition, the back and forth. Huinker didn't win the match, but she demonstrated a steadiness, consistency and endurance. These are skills she's honed over the course of her high school career—skills she'll take with her to Luther College, where she'll compete on the women's tennis team starting in the fall. Head women's tennis coach Adam Strand is thrilled about having Huinker join the team. "We are very excited to have Olivia joining our women's tennis program this fall," Strand said. "She had an outstanding career at Decorah High School and will be a great addition to our team. I am eager to get on court with her soon!" During her decorated high school career, Huinker helped to lead Decorah to multiple state appearances and finishes, both in individual and team state. During her senior year, she helped secure a difficult second-place team finish at state against a loaded Xavier team. In addition, she and her sister Grace teamed up to earn second place in overall doubles competition at state as well. About continuing tennis in college, Huinker said, "I just love the sport and couldn't see myself not playing." Huinker grew up watching Luther women's tennis. It was part of her childhood, and she's excited to be part of the program. Huinker plans to major in nursing. About attending Luther, she's excited to "meet new people and experience something new and different." One thing she's not hoping for is another two-and-a-half-hour match, but those things can't be predetermined. Instead, Huinker's doing what every committed athlete does in the offseason: practicing with friends and family. "They're able to push me," Huinker said. "And it's also fun." Luther tennis hosts its first home match on Saturday, Sept. 12, when they play Illinois College. The match will also be the first since joining the Midwest Conference. Stay connected and informed! Join the free newsletter for curated news, trending topics, and insider perspectives you won't find anywhere else.