Lady Eagles’ tennis team state runner-up

BY KATHY PICKENS

The Greenville Standard

 

Fort Dale’s girls’ tennis team was the runner-up at the AISA state tournament at Lagoon Park in Montgomery.

Freshman Lily Smith was named 4th seed state champion for singles. Third seed freshman Faith Baker and fifth seed senior Caroline Meadows were state runners-up in singles.

In the doubles category, the 2nd-seeded team of seniors Rileigh Rogers and Kathleen Meadows were also runners-up.  On the boys side, 3rd seed Jase Butts was runner-up in singles.

Coach Jennie Hamilton said of the season, “We have a really strong team with great depth. We didn’t lose any senior girls last year, so that helped us this year, and having 16 girls vying for five spots definitely motivates the players.

“Last year we didn’t have anyone playing in the finals, so to have four of seven lines in the finals was huge. Our boys team had a strong season, and having Jase Butts make it to the finals was very exciting, as we haven’t had a boy in the finals in a while.

“It is rewarding seeing the players improve throughout the season and enjoying playing throughout the year. Many of the players were out practicing the day after the state tournament, already working towards next season.

“Those are the type of players that make this job so much fun. Some of the names absent from the finals from Fort Dale were two of the best players we have had come through our program. Those are our first seeds, Sam Judah McLendon and Charlotte Anderson.

“They both are very talented players and leaders on our team. They set the bar and the pace for us, showing the other players what advanced tennis looks like. Unfortunately, they also face the best players from other programs, some of whom already have offers from colleges.

“I am very proud of these two. They are encouragers and help other players improve their games. It is very heartwarming to see their love for the game and desire to keep improving.”