11.07.13
Tennis wins league
Girls tennis goes undefeated in league for the second year in a row. Story by Sarah Kochanek.
F Freshman Jennifer Kerr digs for a ball. Photo courtesy of Amy Stout.
Sophomore Kate Bilse reaches for a volley. Photo courtesy of Tracey Weingarten
Senior Sam Hodges gets ready to slam a backhand. Photo courtesy of Amy Stout.
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or the second year in a row, the girls tennis team went undefeated in Avocado East League play. This season, they earned the title of league champions and have an overall record of 10-3, also the first in their league. The other schools in SDA’s league are Mission Hills, San Pasqual, San Marcos, and Escondido. “The best part of being undefeated was that the girls are closer now than ever and they feel good about themselves,” said Coach Deb Abrahamson. The team participated in bonding activities such as tournaments and a fundraiser held at Bobby Riggs Tennis Club that raised $4,100 for the SDA tennis program. According to the coaches, it was the leadership of the varsity players that helped the team this year. Some of the JV girls had trouble “balancing tennis, school, homework, and family. The attitude of the team influenced their success this season,” said varsity coach Joe Tomasi. The students feel equally appreciative of the coaches. “My coach played a big part in us winning. He pushes us and although we don’t always appreciate it, it pays off in the end,” said senior
Sierra Gallant. Although the team had a great season, there was a setback regarding the location of their home courts. The construction on the field has caused the shutdown of the tennis courts here at SDA. As a result, the girls had to practice and host matches at Sage Creek High School in Carlsbad. This meant little to no student support at SDA’s home matches, as well as attendance issues for student athletes who couldn’t miss fourth period. “The JV team fell apart at the end [of the season]. It takes nine girls to play a match; October matches found only five Mustang JV players on the bus,” said Abrahamson. Regardless, the Mustangs pushed through the challenges they faced to have their most successful season in years. Abrahamson reflects on a highlight of the season: “Our most significant match was against Coronado because the win came down to the 3rd round of sets played.” Said Gallant, “Beating Coronado was great because we haven’t beaten them in years. It’s a good way to finish my high school tennis career, and I’m really going to miss my team next year.”