Decatur High’s Mary Virginia Sherrill prefers being called by her full name because her middle name came from her grandmother, who she loves and wishes to honor.

Whether Sherrill goes by one, two or three names, it’s hard for North Alabama tennis to forget her. After all, she’s been a mainstay in the Decatur High lineup for four years. She played No. 6 singles as a freshman, then moved to No. 3 as a sophomore and has occupied the No. 1 spot as a junior and senior.

Sherrill has helped Decatur advance to the state tournament the past two years, and as one of six starters returning from last year, she leads an experienced team that’s battling for a third straight bid.

After celebrating her 18th birthday recently with wins in singles and doubles against Bob Jones, she volleyed 10 questions from Daily Sports Editor Mark Edwards:

Question: Have you always loved tennis?

Answer: Yes, pretty much. At camp, when we could pick what we wanted to do, I always played tennis. It’s a lot of fun, especially being with my friends.

My best friends are Emily (Suggs) and Burgoyne (Fite), and they’re on the team also. (All three have been in the Decatur varsity lineup since 2007.)

Q: You’ve been doubles partners with Emily Suggs for three years now. What makes you guys good?

A: We play a lot different — our strengths and weaknesses equal out. That makes us work well together. Also, we’re really good friends, and that helps, too.

We really have a good time, and maybe that’s why we do well. We enjoy playing doubles together.

Q: Do either you or Emily ever lose your temper on the court?

A: Yes, we do. Lots of times. It’s always when we’re playing the (Decatur) boys. Oh, my goodness.

We played them last week. We ended up winning, but we got mad.

Q: What is it about playing Decatur’s boys players that makes you mad?

A: It’s hard to play the boys. It’s frustrating. Even though we ended up winning, we got really mad.

But in real matches, we pretty much stay calm.

Q: Pro players like everything to be quiet when they play. Do you mind when there’s noise when you play?

A: Yes. Last week, the other team was cheering so loud it go on my nerves. But it seems to be better when it’s (No. 1 singles). The fans are a lot more respectful. Maybe because it’s higher level they know you’re not supposed to be so rude.

Q: Do you have any pre-match routine that you absolutely must do?

A: Not before the match, but during a match, I have to bounce the ball three times before I serve. And when I’m about to return serve, I have to twirl my racket. I shuffle my feet, too, but I have to twirl my racket.

Q: Tennis players sometimes have to spend a lot of hours at the court for matches, so they’ll pack several snacks. What are your favorite snacks?

A: Miss Dede’s trail mix. (Dede Suggs is Emily Suggs’ mother.) It has M&Ms, peanuts, pretzels, dark chocolate — lots of stuff. And I like fruit.

Q: What are some things you like to do besides tennis?

A: Go to the gym. Hang out with my family. Hang out with friends.

Walk on the bike trails, although I haven’t done that much lately because it’s been cold. I like to run. I like to listen to music.

Q: What’s your favorite music?

A: I like old stuff — 106.1. I like the Beatles and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Q: You recently were student of the month at Decatur High. Do you have a favorite subject?

A: Chemistry II with Mrs. (Ann) Coggins. I like her a lot.