The varsity boys tennis team received second place at their distinct tournament. Two doubles teams placed in third and fourth place and two of the single players finished at first and second place and were able to move onto sectionals in Mexico, Missouri. This season the tennis team had a lot of motivation to place because the season prior they also placed second at districts. The tennis team is hoping that by placing two years in a row it will motivate both returning and new players to play the game to their fullest potential.

“A lot of the motivation on the team has to come within…when you get that close you see that it is possible,” said coach Jonathan Flaxbart.

This year the tennis team had many experienced players that would not only be able to improve their game, but also help other players learn the basics. Having a setup like this had a positive impact on the team because they were able to focus on complex skills that would increase their chances of winning.

“This year was nice because a lot of the fellas had played before and we were able to work on the finer points of the game…we could really work on shot placement and putting spin or slice on the ball,” said Flaxbart.

Many of the returning players were able to help other players with their skills. Having an influence like this can be very beneficial because it can teach players trust and grow relationships in addition to helping them grow their skills and confidence.

“I think I gave a lot of good tennis knowledge to the other players and helped them succeed,” said senior team member Connor Russell.

On top of the team’s successes, many of the players have also had personal improvements, whether that be winning more matches or improving individual skills.

“[My biggest personal success this season was] winning more singles games than I have been…this season I’ve probably won half of them,” said senior team member Ethan Sewell.

This year half of the tennis players are graduating, leaving the team with only five returning players. Flaxbart is hoping that with winning districts two years in a row they can attract more people who want to learn and play tennis.

“We had a lot of freshmen join last year that really fell in love with the game and put in the work in the off season. I’m hoping that they continue to do that this year and we can get some more guys on our team,” said Flaxbart.