Marshall's Kronzer Singing and Swinging his way into the State Spotlight
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DULUTH - Marshall senior tennis standout Joey Kronzer found a racket in his hands before he went to preschool.
“I started playing tennis when I was 3,” says Marshall senior tennis player Joey Kronzer, “I got some free tennis lessons from my grandma for my birthday.”
After 14 years on the court, 6 of them with the Marshall varsity team, Kronzer has grown in both size...
“Well,” says Kronzer, “probably about a foot.”
and even more in skill.
“I started out playing a little 3 doubles and 4 singles,” says Kronzer, “played 3 singles at state my 8th grade year. Got my first shot at 1 singles my 10th grade year and I've been playing that ever since.”
Kronzer has grown into one of the area's best.
“Of our number one singles players over the years he's got the most varied style,” says Marshall head boys tennis coach Kurt Bartell, “He'll find out what somebody doesn't like to do and then he'll be all over that.”
An injury cost Kronzer a section title match as a sophomore, Joey came back and won the 7A crown as a junior.
“It was a great day for tennis. I was just feeling great,” says Kronzer, “I just wasn't going to lose. Just wouldn't let it happen.”
A rare vocal talent has brought Joey an unparalleled focus to his game.
“Helps me find the rhythm,” says Kronzer, “out on the court there.”
It's his competitive choral singing experience...
“Once you're singing Italian Aria's in front of judges,” says Kronzer, “this stuffs nothing.”
which may elevate Joey's game to a state championship level.
“My own son wants to be able to sing like Joey does,” says Bartell, “he does better when he's in front of a big crowd.”
Teaching Kronzer to shine his brightest when the spotlight is on.
“Mentally he is as tough as they come,” says Bartell, “He's one of those players that will play better when the stakes are higher.”
And as the defending section champ, the light will be squarely on Joey this month.
“It's just who is going to be the best player on that day,” says Kronzer, “It's not really about pressure. It's about being mentally prepared, showing up, and being ready to play.”
Kronzer preparing to make another run at state and when this school year is done, a tennis career at St. Olaf.
“It's going to be nice playing in college,” says Kronzer, “and playing with really good solid players on a more consistent basis.”
