This season, the varsity girls tennis team is taking the time to create lasting memories while also dominating conference matches and tournaments.
On September 20th, the girls celebrated Senior Night, a night to honor and celebrate all of the hard work they have put in the last 4 years. The night started with the seniors walking out with their families, receiving a rose, and shaking Dr. McNamara and Mr. Ward’s hands. Burns Photography was also there to cement the occasion with pictures. For introductions, the team decided on Christmas music and each doubles team or singles player walked out to a different Christmas song (the favorite being Feliz Navidad) to meet the opposing team, Morris. The girls ferociously took on Morris and won 6-1. The team celebrated by renting Joey’s food truck for the night.
The girls continue to dominate the competition with wins over Andrew, HF, Plainfield South and placing second at the Lincoln –Way West Varsity invite. While they crush their competition, the team also enjoys pre-game snacking and making TikTok’s on the bus ride to matches. A highlight of the season for many girls was the team trip to Dairy Queen after playing Lockport. Senior Varsity player Bella Borck says, “my favorite part of the day is coming out to the courts and knowing it’s going to be a good practice based on the people there. The energy and excitement each player brings is really something special.” The little things like team ice-cream and pregame rituals make the season extra special to our seniors.
When the team isn’t destroying their competition, they enjoy fun, spirited practices. Every Friday, it’s Payday Friday. All the players participate in a game, whether it be a serving competition or a rally contest. Whatever team or individual player wins, receives a Payday candy bar. The tradition also includes “Slayer of the Week” in which the coaches decide who has “slayed” the hardest that week. The winner receives a medal with the words “Slayer of the Week” on it.
After the Ottawa game, Conference is right around the corner for these fierce players as they continue to bring their best playing to the end of their season. Best of luck to our players and congratulations to our varsity seniors.
