After finding power in numbers, the girls tennis team wrapped up its season with one of the largest teams in years.
 

With a total of 40 players, the team had many different levels
of experience to bring to the table, from varsity-level athletes to newcomers. Six players went on to compete at regionals, where the Lions placed fourth.

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“We won some matches and were very competitive,” Coach Chris Marshall said. “We played well, and we had players who were very close to getting to state.”

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Although their season ended at regionals, senior Allison Jakubauskas said that everyone on the team put all their effort into the game.

 

“I think everyone just worked their butt off this season,” Jakubauskas said. “We improved all around, but we definitely got closer, which was really fun.”

 

The team continued to progress, all while contending with the challenge of packed practices. Players ultimately ended the season with more victories than defeats, and Coach Brian Hunter said there was improvement.

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“Their attitude and work ethic improved the most,” Hunter said. “The girls took practices more seriously as the season wore on and they got addicted to winning.”

Team members said they were motivated by winning because it built a stronger bond with teammates.

 

"When I play doubles, I want my partner to feel happy,” sophomore Harper Jay said. “If we win, then they’re also happy.”

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Marshall said that everyone on the team had not only grown as athletes, but as people overall.

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“The key is to put each player in a position they feel confident,” Marshall said. “Remind them that they are good players and to keep moving them forward.”