The Newsome girls’ tennis team is gearing up for another year of domination, as tryouts were held on Jan. 23. The team certainly appears to be in good shape to follow in the footsteps of an incredible season last year, where not only did the team perform splendidly at the district competition at Bloomingdale, but multiple players also advanced all the way to the state finals.                                               

   However, the team lost many of its core players from last year’s storybook season, as multiple of the top players were seniors. The team is still optimistic though, as sophomore Victoria Pressley said, “With losing our seniors this season, we have some pretty big shoes to fill and we have to form connections with our new teammates to do that. On the other hand, with how warming and welcoming the team was…last year, I don’t doubt this will be a hard obstacle to overcome.” It is clear to see through Pressley’s comments that all of the players are firmly committed to their team’s success as a whole, not just whatever personal landmarks they wish to achieve. 

   Pressley went on to credit the coaching the team receives regularly as the main reason the team is ready to surpass the high bar set for them by the last season. “Alongside our amazing Coach Peters, we all have personal coaches that we work hand in hand with to ensure we can perform to the best of our abilities for our team.” In short, it is clear to see that the members of the girls tennis team are training like the state contenders that they are. 

   This young squad will have to prove themselves quickly, as districts will occur on April 10-11 at Bloomingdale High School this year. From there, those still competing will face a quick turnaround before battling at the regional meet on April 23 to determine if they will be making the trip to Sanlando Park to compete in the state finals on an undetermined date in late April to early May.