Patrick Ebobisse, Soccer

When soccer captain Patrick Ebobisse takes the field, he shows a unique blend of leadership and a nose for the goal that prompted coach Mike Williams to describe him as a truly complete player who is one of the top players in Maryland.

In his senior year, Ebobisse has proven his worth as a versatile player for the team this season. He has played three different positions, scoring a goal in three of his first five games.

“Last year at outside mid[field] made me faster, stronger and smarter,” he said.

Despite a successful season last year, Ebobisse is still hungry for the ball. Predominantly playing center forward allows him to get the ball as much as he can handle.

When he is not sporting his WJ jersey, chances are, Ebobisse is probably still occupied with soccer. From playing on nationally ranked club team Potomac Internationals to playing FIFA with friends, it seems like Ebobisse is all soccer all the time ever since he started playing at age three in France.

“I have watched Patrick grow since freshmen year, and I respect Patrick tremendously both on and off the field,” said Williams.

Williams is confident that Ebobisse will be successful in college; as Dickinson, Brown, and Holy Cross have all shown interest in him. But, Williams wants to concentrate on this year.

“I’m confident that Patrick can continue to lead us to great success,” he said.

Tiffany Lin, Tennis

The tennis program has been one of the best, if not the best in the county in the last two years, going undefeated with a record of 14-0, with two states doubles championships. Senior Tiffany Lin has been a part of it all. She has won three state doubles championships; along with posting a 14-1 record last year. Lin won the number two singles championship in 2006, finishing behind a WJ tennis great, Lauren Wolman, who graduated last year.

“She has a well-balanced game,” said Coach Lynn Poznanski. “She has a strong serve and groundstrokes.” The team’s record is 6-2, with Lin posting a record of 5-0, missing key matches because of illness.

This year, Lin has risen in the ranks to the No. 1 singles player. She has only lost one game in the past three years, and now will get a chance to play against the top players in the state. Her dedication to the game is important to her success.

“You have to love the sport,” said Lin.

Collegiate programs have already expressed interest in Lin, and according to former coach Mary LaFratta, Lin already has the talent to become successful later in her tennis career.

“She definitely has the skills to take it to the collegiate level,” said LaFratta. “Her concentration and patience is unique.”

A quality of Lin’s game that makes her so successful is her patience. She is very quick, allowing her to get to almost any ball hit her way.