Washington High School Senior Commits to Meredith College Tennis

Addie Gibbs will continue her athletic and academic career at her mother's alma mater.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 12:35am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a high school tennis player in mid-swing, their body and racket broken into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in shades of blue, green, and yellow, capturing the energy and movement of the sport.Gibbs' dynamic tennis skills will be an asset to the Meredith College team as she transitions to the college level.Washington Park Today

Washington High School senior Addie Gibbs has announced that she will continue her tennis career at Meredith College in North Carolina. Gibbs, who was initially set on attending NC State, reached out to the Meredith coach and was surprised by his interest in recruiting her. After visiting the campus and meeting the team, Gibbs decided Meredith was the right fit for her.

Why it matters

Gibbs' decision to attend Meredith College highlights the importance of family connections and campus culture in the college recruitment process. Her mother's prior experience at the school played a role in Gibbs' final choice, showcasing how personal ties can sway an athlete's decision.

The details

Gibbs, who is currently a standout on her high school's soccer team, expects to play in the top singles positions for Meredith's tennis team as a freshman. While the specifics of her doubles role have not been determined, Gibbs is confident that her skills will translate well to the college level.

  • Gibbs announced her commitment to Meredith College this week.
  • Gibbs is currently in the midst of her senior soccer season at Washington High School.

The players

Addie Gibbs

A senior at Washington High School who has excelled in both tennis and soccer. She will be continuing her athletic and academic career at Meredith College in the fall.

Meredith College

A private liberal arts college located in Raleigh, North Carolina, where Gibbs' mother previously attended.

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What they’re saying

“So as of last year, I did not want to play college tennis. My junior season, I was dead set on going to N.C. State. But this season, I reached out to the Meredith coach. My mom went to Meredith, so I knew it was a possibility, and he was really interested.”

— Addie Gibbs, Washington High School Senior

“They definitely think that I'll be on the upper end of the singles, like two or three, freshman season. But they haven't said much for doubles. We've had some doubles partner discussions, but nothing really concerning that. But usually singles players will play doubles.”

— Addie Gibbs, Washington High School Senior

What’s next

Gibbs will continue to balance her high school soccer and tennis commitments as she prepares to transition to the college level at Meredith in the fall.

The takeaway

Gibbs' decision to attend her mother's alma mater, Meredith College, demonstrates the power of personal connections in the college recruitment process. Her willingness to explore options beyond her initial top choice, NC State, paid off in the form of a promising opportunity at a school that aligns with her family history and values.