The Apache Netters hosted district foe Prairie View for a dual match on Thursday, with only two weeks remaining in the regular tennis season.
The Apaches extended their season record to 6-0, sitting alone in first place. “We again faced a team that is experiencing re-building status,” Orr said. “Our veteran players dominated their matches, and our first-year members, who have gained valuable experience, defeated their opponents as we claimed an 8-0 district win.”
Girls’ Doubles – The No. 1 duo of Evie Walker and Katharyn Woodard teamed for a 6-0, 6-0 defeat of Hope Lindeman and Peyton Simone. At the No. 2 position, Darbi Walker and Mary-Evelyn King defeated Victoria Rainbold and Alex Smith 6-1, 6-3. “Joy and smiles marked the occasion of their first victory together. I am so pleased with their improvement. They remained focused and took advantage of unforced errors. Both teams are continuing to learn strategy and ‘to play as one.'”
Boys’ Doubles – Enjoying their third-year of varsity competition, the ninth-graders Johnny Law Flournoy and John Curtis Brown are indicating that they are a formidable team as they claimed a 6-0, 6-0 win, defeating Matthew Simmons and Tripp Netherland. “Skill, athletic ability, teamwork, and remaining focused characterize their play. They are well aware of gauging the abilities of their opponents and then maneuvering into position to earn the point,” commented Orr.
Mixed Doubles – Abigail Gilbert and Justin Le teamed up for a 6-1, 6-1 defeat of Hope Lindeman and Austin Harper.
Boys’ Singles – Schyler Powell defeated Austin Harper 6-0, 6-0 in the No. 1 position. Playing the No. 2 position, Johnny Law Flournoy defeated Alex Louizou 6-1, 6-0. Using consistent first-serving, Schyler kept his opponent on the defensive. As the match continued, Schyler’s ground strokes forced his opponent into making errors. Johnny Law simply used his experience and his determined attitude to subdue his opponent.”
Girls’ Singles – Amelia Christy, a sophomore, and Catherine Willis, a senior, easily defeated their opponents by 6-0, 6-0 scores, Alice Adams and Alex Smith, respectively. “We have not encountered much competitiveness by our opponents at these positions,” Orr said. “However, our practice sessions have allowed them to remain focused. These girls approach their matches ‘with their game faces showing.”