As the season wraps up for our Lakeview Girls Tennis Team, another challenge arises on the courts.
On September 30th, the girls take a trip to Hawken High School for Sectionals. Under the guidance of head Coach Mara Wilson, the girls have battled through a tough season to earn their 8-8 record.
This season brought more than just competitive and long fought matches, but it brought a large wave of new faces. The Bulldogs welcomed 8 new players to the roster, giving the team a boost in numbers but in spirit as well.
After 16 matches, the new and returning players blended quickly, creating a supportive environment where each player pushed each other to improve while celebrating every victory, big or small, along the way.
As our girls tennis team opened its year with energy and excitement, it is no doubt that they faced a mix of tough conference rivals and non-conference challengers.
From the first serve, the girls showcased their grit, back and forth rallying in close matches, and refusing to back down against the opponents.
Their 8-8 record reflects both the competitive level of their schedule and the incredible improvement that defined their season. Every match, whether a victory or long fought loss, brought lessons that strengthened the team and players heading into the postseason.
Wilson, former Lakeview Girls tennis player now in her role as coach, has been leading and preparing the Bulldogs for the upcoming challenges.
Wilson had only positive and encouraging words left to say to her team at this point, “The team has worked hard all season! Everyone has improved and is ready to play their best! Sectionals is the next level and might be more of a challenge but it’s nothing the girls can’t handle.”
Encouraging the team to move past losses and focus on the future, Wilson reminds the girls to embrace every challenge as an opportunity to learn.
Not only has that helped the girls stay composed during nail biting moments but also taught them to celebrate not only their wins, but their progress and accomplishments collectively.
4-year returning player, senior Lillian Haines spoke about the importance of a positive mindset on the courts, “Being positive is really really important because it has helped me to stay focused and keep my confidence, which makes it easier for me to bounce back from a rough set or match.”
Team chemistry has been one of Lakeview’s greatest strengths. Whether competing on the singles courts or pairing up for doubles, the girls have relied on each other for encouragement and energy.
The combination of returning players and eager newcomers has created a dynamic team relationship where everyone supports, shows out, and contributes.
Freshman doubles player, Rylan Bland commented on the impact of team spirit and preparation as a freshman, “So far this tennis season has been great! I’ve learned so much from these girls about the sport and what they’re into! They always have the best team spirit and they are always cheering! It feels so good hearing everyone cheer me on. We have sectionals coming up and I cannot wait to cheer everyone else on too!”
As the girls tennis team turns their attention to sectionals, anticipation is building. The upcoming tournament at Hawken High School located in Gates Mills, Ohio, will serve as an opportunity to show out their newly learned season efforts and a chance to extend their journey into the postseason.
Sectional tournaments are known for their intensity and pressure, and our girls are eager to test themselves in this competition.
While the road ahead is challenging, the girls believe their balanced record, close matches, and newly expanded roster have prepared them for what’s to come.
For the players, Sectionals represent more than just any regular match, but a reward for their dedication throughout the season.
With each serve, return, and exhausting rally, reflecting their dedication, the girls aim to bring their energy and support to Hawken, showing the spirit and determination they have carried throughout this season.
Regardless of the outcome, the Lakeview girls tennis team has already achieved a season worth celebrating. Their 8-8 record shows the growth and determination needed to compete with upcoming opponents.
As they step onto the courts of Hawken High School, with a variety of schools and competition, the girls carry with them their excitement and pride.
Win or lose, this team’s dedication and sportsmanship have set a high enough standard for future seasons, proving that true victory lies not only in the score, but in the heart and effort of every player who picks up a racquet for the Lakeview Bulldogs.
Good Luck Girls!
