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Vindy Spring Athletes: Tim Cianciola
When it comes to tennis, it’s all in the family for the Cianciolas of Canfield. Six months after sisters Hannah and Sydney won the Division I state title in doubles, brother Tim qualified for state as a singles player.
It was his second time playing in the state tournament. Cianciola, a junior, lost his first round match to Mason’s Saiprakash Goli but says the experience of seeing players form other parts of the state was valuable in preparing for his senior year.
“It was a tough match — had never played him before,” Cianciola said. “I wasn’t nervous at all, I was happy to be there.”
As a freshman, he and doubles partner Bobby Long qualified back when the tournament was in Columbus. Last October, he watched his sisters win at the complex in Mason where the Western & Southern Open is played in late summer.
“Probably the happiest moment I’ve ever experienced,” he said. “I don’t have words — it was really amazing.”
He said he has felt pressure because of his sisters’ success, “but it’s a confidence booster. It’s alright.”
Cianciola said it’s different playing singles as doubles players have the luxury of having someone who has their back.
“I more like singles,” Cianciola said. “I like to be in a zone by myself.”
Cianciola will spend the summer visiting colleges.
“I definitely want to play tennis in college, but I don’t know where yet,” Cianciola said.