Seniors lead the way for the girls tennis team

Piper Keane

With the loss of 15 seniors, the upcoming athletes on the girls tennis team had their work cut out for them.

Challenged with an entire new line-up, the team managed to stay competitive throughout the season. Senior Elyza Wiles accepted the challenge as she became the No. 1 singles player. Competing at a very high level, Wiles represented the team well. Additionally, the senior became a significant leader to the younger players.

Seniors Natalie Ondo and Cami Kwiatkowski took up the No.1 doubles position. They too displayed competitiveness and leadership as they were quite successful. Additionally, senior Valentina Navas played both singles and doubles throughout the season.

“Our seniors gave us a chance and I’m so proud of how they performed,” coach Brian Duermeyer said.

In addition, the roster proved to have some depth. Juniors Josie Wilkins and Paige Sigmund really developed as players this year. Both players will step up at the singles spots next year. During a match against a section opponent Butler, Wilkins and Sigmund had to step up to the No.1 and No.2 singles position. Unexpectedly faced with the challenge, the girls surprised Butler with their competitiveness.

Although the final record was 2-3, the team gained the confidence this season to flip those numbers for next season. With the team putting in the work in the off-season, next year is looking bright for the team.

“The season was a challenge, but it was so much fun, and I am so proud to have been a part of such a great team,” Wiles said.