Jocelyne Hilary, Staff Writer
Tennis season is underway, and the Lions are looking better than ever. Having made the regional final last year, the coaching staff and the team are eager and ready to get on the courts and get those points.
So what can we expect this season? Having competed in the regional final last year, the team is looking at a more intense schedule this season. Coach James Bryce described the strength of their schedule as the “hardest schedule yet” as the team is expected to play against every team in the top 10.
With the addition of newcomers Bruno Sisti, Ismail Lemtouni, Corali Pesenti, and Pauline Heglesson, the team is looking more diverse and experienced than ever.
So with such cultural diversity on the team, what strengths can we expect the players to bring?
The boys’ team consists of mostly upperclassmen, and Coach Bryce is eager to see them put their experience of playing tough games to use. He described the boys team as a “close knit team,” and with this as a factor and two new additional players, we can expect their teamwork to help them prevail.
In regards to the girls’ team, the Lions have a “talented squad” representing us. The team is “deeper and stronger than have been ever before” and they are hungry in attaining those winning points. They are a very “professional team” and the combination of all these assets is a strength when playing against these high ranked opponents. Unlike the boys’ team, the girls are a balance of “youth, experience, and hunger” when their goals are set. It is not a question of whether or not its achievable, but the mindset that it is achievable.
Raw talent does not suffice in order to compete in tournaments of this standard, so the Lions have been preparing and training for this as best as they can. They have maintained the same schedule in order to maintain a set routine. With training Mondays through Fridays with a combination of sprints and conditioning, this team definitely demonstrates that hard work is key to success. The last tournament has definitely been the fundamental key for growth in this team. The previous experience and learning about the opposing teams’ game play and strategies have helped the team prepare efficiently for what’s coming up.
The team’s hard work is paying off and everyone is excited to get this season going on a high.
Sophomore Maria Benkirane said, “I am looking forward to playing this season. as it is the best team we have had so far.”
Senior Emily Singleton urged students to participate and support the Lions. “We need support from people. It keeps us motivated during these long matches.”
The home openers took off with a great start. The Lions opened with a 9-0 victory on both days against St.Thomas and Southeastern.
Needless to say, Coach Bryce was “very happy” with his team’s performance. He described their attitude and work ethic as “excellent” and hopes they can reach nationals. Their performance that weekend has definitely opened the door for what’s to come next. The Lions are expected to play Georgia, Armstrong, and Lynn in the upcoming games.
The next home game will be against Lynn University on Feb. 17 at 11.00 a.m., so please go support your Lions.
