From Paratriathlon to Para-Standing Tennis: Kendra Herber’s Journey

At Optimus Prosthetics, we are proud to sponsor athletes who embody the spirit of perseverance and excellence, like Kendra Herber. Kendra, a former world champion in paratriathlon, has recently shifted her focus to a new challenge: para-standing tennis. Her tenacity and skill were on full display at the North American Para Standing Tennis Championship Tournament in Dallas, Texas, where she secured the doubles national championship title. Here’s a closer look at Kendra’s journey, in her own words, and her aspirations for the future.

Embracing a New Challenge

Before heading to Dallas, Kendra felt a mix of excitement and apprehension. “I hadn’t played in an official tennis match since high school,” she shared. “Twenty-two years ago, I was fairly good at tennis just out of sheer athleticism, but I had never had formal lessons.” In the past five months, however, Kendra has made remarkable strides in her game thanks to her coach’s guidance. By “building her toolbox” of serves, shots, and techniques, she entered the tournament feeling more prepared than ever.

Despite this preparation, Kendra faced a steep learning curve. “Just like with triathlon, I didn’t know how I would compare against other players with disabilities because I have always played against able-bodied athletes,” she explained. However, her confidence grew as she observed her competitors, realizing she was among the top players in attendance.

A Tournament to Remember

In her singles matches, Kendra quickly found her rhythm. After receiving a bye in the first round, she dominated her second-round match, winning 6-2, 6-2. The third round presented her biggest challenge: a match against the best player in the world. Her opponent, who has unique adaptations due to her disability, was allowed two bounces instead of one—a rule that required Kendra to adjust her strategy. Despite putting up a strong fight and taking the match to a tiebreaker, Kendra narrowly missed victory.

“I ended up coming in third place due to how the bracket was laid out, even though I was the second-best female player there,” Kendra noted. “I really want to play that opponent again. I know I’m capable of more and have the potential to beat her if given the opportunity.”

In doubles, however, Kendra and her partner were unstoppable. The pair dominated the tournament, losing only one game over three days to claim the gold medal. “Together, we were unstoppable,” Kendra said with pride.

Optimizing Performance with Adaptive Technology

As an amputee athlete, Kendra relies on advanced prosthetic technology to compete at the highest level. For tennis, she currently uses an everyday prosthetic leg with a socket crafted by Optimus Prosthetics and a Fillauer All Pro foot. This setup provides the dynamic movement and side-to-side agility she needs on the court. However, Kendra is already looking to the future. “Eventually, I would love a foot that has even more response—more like a running blade,” she explained. “I have big plans in this sport.”

Looking Ahead

Kendra’s goals extend far beyond personal achievements. In addition to aiming for the world’s top ranking in para-standing tennis, she is passionate about growing the sport and advocating for its inclusion in the Paralympics. “I hope to act as a mentor for some of the younger players and change society’s perception of people with disabilities,” she said.

Throughout the tournament, Kendra heard comments like, “You don’t play like you’re missing a leg” or “Your serve is better than a lot of able-bodied females.” Her response speaks volumes about her mindset: “I DO play like someone who is missing a leg, because I AM missing a leg. I don’t want to be ‘good for being disabled’; I want to be a good tennis player…period.”

Supporting Kendra’s Mission

We are honored to support Kendra as she breaks barriers and redefines what it means to be an elite athlete. Her journey from paratriathlon to para-standing tennis is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and adaptive technology. To learn more about Kendra Herber and her inspiring journey, visit her website at kendraherber.com.

To read more about her story and personal journey as an amputee, you can check out her book, WHOLE: A Leg Up On Life, here.

Kendra, thank you for motivating us all to aim higher and redefine possibilities. We can’t wait to see what you achieve next!