The St. Anthony’s varsity girls’ tennis team is ready to make a run in the 2017 playoffs. In a short, but exciting season, the tennis team has achieved success while enjoying the process of growth and development.
With a 5-2 record the girls enter the playoffs with skill and confidence. The team is talented, determined, and kind both on and off the court—one of the main reasons why the season has been so successful. Vigorous practice has the team expecting big things Tuesday, October 10th against Sacred Heart.
The coaches this year are Carole Quinn and Janine Debellis; their knowledge of the sport and moral guidance has taught the team how to win, but also the importance forming close bonds and being respectful towards teammates. The belief in teammates instilled by the coaches pushed the team to a winning record.
Captains Peyton Gadaire and Olivia Quinn have been on the varsity team since sophomore year; they have proven to be team players and made the season enjoyable with their spirited personalities. Singles players Morena Devito, Ivanna Nikolic, and Peyton Gadaire have all fought hard against tough competition, each earning a record of 3-1. Doubles team Olivia Quinn and Lauren Hammer have also had a very successful season, winning the deciding match that led the team to the playoffs.
The undefeated doubles team of the season is Ashley D’Ambrisi and Bridget Smyth have a record of 4-0. Ashley and Bridget demonstrated their value to the team by working hard and securing the team’s place in the playoffs as well. Ashley and Bridget will look to continue their success on Tuesday, October 10th against Sacred Heart.
“It’s important to stay focused and take one point at a time. Tennis is a mind game and in reality you have to be strong mentally and physically,” said senior Hayley Kaplan. The Friars will need to keep their mental edge. For all the team’s preparation, they won’t be able to sleep on a proficient Sacred Heart squad.
Captain Olivia Quinn expressed the attitude the Friars are bringing into the offseason, when asked what the team means to her. “Playing on this team is something I always look forward to, the past few years of being on the team have truly been the best and I have been blessed enough to have created the most genuine friendships. The girls are my family and we truly do know how to have a good time with each other as well as bring each other up when were down.”
The team takes the court tomorrow, Oct. 10th, 4:15pm at the Huntington Crescent Club, ready to bring home a victory.
About The Author:
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Peyton Gadaire Peyton is a senior at Saint Anthony’s and is captain of the varsity girls’ tennis team. This is Peyton’s first year writing for the Friar Scoreboard, she is also an active member of Friar Faithful, English Honor Society, and National Honor Society. |
