Rone signs with Copiah-Lincoln Community College tennis

Special to The Clinton Courier

Ethan Rone

Clinton High School tennis senior Ethan Rone recently signed a national letter of intent with Copiah-Lincoln Community College’s tennis team.

Rone, who started his athletic career on the basketball court, made the transition to the tennis courts in seventh grade, after he was encouraged to try out for Arrow tennis program. A journey that began with an unexpected opportunity quickly blossomed into a passion that reshaped Rone’s athletic path toward collegiate tennis.

“At the time, I was a basketball player,” Rone said. “I tried out for the tennis team, I made it; and, when basketball didn’t work out, I focused on tennis from there on out. Ever since then, I’ve played tournaments, UTSA leagues, and just got more and more involved. Recently, tennis has taken me to another level.”

Despite starting the sport later than many of his peers – at the age of twelve – Rone’s tennis development accelerated through persistence, consistent training and guidance from Clinton Head Tennis Coach Taylor Griffith and Clinton Assistant Tennis Coach Will Godfrey.

“It’s crazy to think about,” Rone said about his tennis journey. “Most players start when they’re really young, but I started when I was twelve. It’s taken a lot of work. I’ve had great coaches who have been amazing to me and taught me so much. I’m proud of how far [tennis] has taken me.”

A doubles specialist for the Arrows, Rone’s recruitment took a significant turn in August, when he competed in a tournament hosted by Copiah-Lincoln in Wesson.

“I had no idea Co-Lin was even an option,” Rone said. “After I won bracket that weekend, I talked to [Tripp Case], and he said he wanted me to come tour. I was actually planning on going to a different college at the time, but, when I toured, I fell in love with the school, the campus and the team.”

“Ethan’s tennis journey has been amazing to watch,” Griffith said. “He started inexperienced in seventh grade and has become a vital part of our team the past three years. I know he will do great things at the next level. He is one of the hardest working players I have ever taught, and we will definitely miss his leadership and passion on the team.”

Rone will join the Wolves in 2026 as he looks forward to one more tennis season with the Arrows and his graduation from CHS.