That's what Zach Stockwell wonders when he watches professional tennis players try to return one of Andy Roddick's laser-like serves. Roddick, Stockwell's favorite pro, recorded the world's fastest serve in 2004, hitting a 155-mph blast, according to Roddick's Association of Tennis Professionals profile.
"His serve is absolutely spectacular. It's just blinding-fast," Stockwell said.
Speaking of fast, Stockwell is known as a speedy player who can chase down almost any shot his opponents hit on the court. Experienced in singles and doubles, he hopes to qualify for the Class 4A state tournament in the latter event with teammate Reed Pecha.
Coach's corner
Stockwell, a first-year team co-captain, made the varsity squad as a sophomore. He is currently Snohomish's No. 1 singles player. "He's just an outstanding athlete," Panthers head coach Dick Jansen said. "I compare him to a greyhound. He's a lean kid and he's very quick."
Good anticipation and other intangible skills help Stockwell excel, said Jansen.
Going solo?
Since 2007 Stockwell has played singles during the regular season and doubles in the postseason. He and Pecha twice qualified for the district doubles tourney but didn't advance further. "Me and Reed still want to play together, especially this year," said Stockwell. "Hopefully we'll make it to state."
Accepting responsibility
Baseball was Stockwell's main sport for a long time, but when he got serious about tennis during his freshman year he discovered that hitting with a racket (not a bat) was his new passion. The best thing about tennis, he said, is "it's just me versus the other guy. If there's a mistake there's no one to blame but yourself."
Ready to rock
Stockwell, who sings and plays guitar, leads the youth group band at Snohomish Community Church. He plays a variety of guitars (electric, acoustic and bass). He's been writing songs and working on an album with friends. Asked to describe his style, he said: "It's a lot of Christian rock. It's definitely a little more laid-back."
Mission accomplished
Two summers ago Stockwell took a missionary trip to Mexico. During the two-week adventure he helped build houses for needy families and played music for locals. Many youngsters there had never seen live musicians and loved the performances, Stockwell said: "There were so many kids that were just going crazy. They'd never seen a guitar before."
Adios, Old Rusty
Stockwell's first car was a white 1990 Honda Accord. Nicknamed "Old Rusty" by Stockwell's sister, the vehicle broke down six times in six months before Stockwell finally gave up on it.
