Athlete of the Week: Fredrich and Shyra Buquel

MISSION, Texas (ValleyCentral) — We have all heard of sibling rivalries but this brother and sister duo has decided to join the same team, using tennis to strengthen their bond.

Fredrich Buquel says playing tennis with his sister Shyra is like a dream. They have been playing doubles with each other since they started playing the game.

The duo is undefeated and recently won the 31-5A mixed doubles district championship.

"Winning mixed doubles helped boost our relationship," said Fredrich.

Their relationship runs deep. Shyra is a sophomore playing with a knee injury because Fredrich is graduating this year.

"Whenever one of us is down, we pick each other up making each other smile. We never get mad at each other. We always help each other and support each other," Shyra said.

However, there is life after tennis to consider. Shyra wants to become a nurse like her mother and Fredrich intends to follow in his father's footsteps and become a marine engineer.

"My parents, they inspire me a lot. They inspire me to work hard in school and tennis. Sacrificing, and staying up late studying," Shyra said.

Their hard work has caught the eye of their coach.

"They do extra tournaments and everything to prepare themselves, but also in the classroom, they're at the top of their class. So, I mean, as a general all around, you know, student-athletes, that's everything you can ask for," said Mike Salinas Sharyland Tennis coach.

Shyra hopes to remain close to Fredrich by also attending the United States Merchant Marine Academy.