Freshman Friday: Baranko serves his way through high school

Every Friday Homestead Publications picks a freshman to be featured in “Freshman Friday,” giving the student population the opportunity to get to know its freshman class. Read below to learn about Robby Baranko, an artistic tennis player.

As a freshman, how have you gotten involved at Homestead this year? What activities do you participate in and why?

I am in Best Buddies.  I enjoy working with all kinds of people, and I think that Best Buddies has opened my eyes to see what talents every single person has, regardless of their “limitations,” meaning that I believe there is no such thing.  I also am a part of Latin Club and play the viola in the orchestra.  In addition, I plan to go out for the tennis team this spring.

Who is someone you have always looked up to and why?

I have always looked up to professional tennis player Rafael Nadal.  He works so hard for every point and gets to balls that you don’t think he will get to.  No opponent likes to play against him due to his high topspin and tremendous athletic ability.  He has been on tour for a while, and I have liked him ever since I saw him beat Tomas Berdych in the 2010 Wimbledon Final.

What would you do if you won the lottery?

Probably save it; I am a saver, not a spender.  The one thing I would for sure buy would be a tennis court.

What is the funniest memory that you can recall involving a teacher at school?

Mr. E referred to a fly (we have a problem with them during the warm months) that was flying around in the orchestra room as a “small eagle.”  Everybody burst out laughing.