NEW HOPE — Monday morning signaled a new beginning for New Hope tennis, coming off the backs of a successful year for the program.

Senior Tradarius Robinson became the first Trojan in program history to sign a National Letter of Intent to play college tennis, signing with Holmes Community College.

“It’s an amazing accomplishment for me,” Robinson said. “I just feel that I set an example for the team. I always teach them to follow a great leader and I feel like I’ve been a great leader. Now, I’ve paved the way, so the sky’s the limit for them.”

Robinson reached the Round of 16 at the Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 5A state championships in mixed doubles this season with partner Katie Hayes.

After meeting with coaches and taking a tour of the campus in Goodman, the program and environment of the Bulldogs felt right for him.

“I felt like Holmes believed in me and I know they can push me to be the best I can be,” Robinson said.

He is the first of two tennis signings this week for New Hope in a week where the Trojan athletics has a record six signings.

Robinson was elected a team captain this season and head coach David Grady spoke highly of him as a leader on the team and a strong upperclassman presence.

“He’s progressed fast since he started,” Grady said. “He’s been able to start on varsity for most of his career. … His teammates think highly of him. He’s always out there directing the younger players and he’s really been a leader for us and we’re going to miss him.”

Robinson’s high school career will soon come to an end, but his tennis career is far from over, and he’s looking forward to the opportunity to play at Holmes.

“I’m excited about getting to meet new people and working to my full potential as a player,” Robinson said.