It’s finally that time of the year: Tennis season! Spring is upon us and it’s time to put up those nets and get back out on the courts.

A new system is emerging from the tennis program this year. There will be no JV team, just varsity. Many believe the strategy is to encourage students to try out since anyone can be on varsity and no one gets cut.

The girls are hoping to repeat both a district and a regional championship, and maybe even achieve a state championship. During states last year, the girls fell short and were unable to win. They are aching at another shot at the title that all the schools are fighting for.

The boys, sadly, did not make it past districts, but are eager for another chance.

Junior, Morgan Woods, of the girls’ varsity tennis team said she can’t wait for tennis to start. “I love tennis. It’s my life. I really think we have a shot at winning states as a team this year and bringing home the first Girls Tennis team state title,” said Morgan.

The girls will also be getting a new coach this year. Their new coach, Jason Golden, is really looking forward too a great year. Jason is currently the Director of Tennis at The Esplanade Golf and Country Club in Lakewood Ranch as well as the Regional Director for Coaches of Excellence.

Coach Golder has also been the Tennis Director at the Hilton Guam Resort and Spa in Guam and Mission Valley Country Club in Venice; Head Tennis Professional at Maui Prince Hotel in Hawaii, Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, and Laurel Oak Country Club in Sarasota; Tennis Professional at the Sports Core in Kohler, Wisconsin, and Lakewood Ranch Country Club. Golden has also coached the girl’s tennis teams at Lakewood Ranch High School and Venice High School.

The boys don’t want the girls stealing all the glory this year though. They also want to prove themselves and show they can win too.

Senior, Marcus Buffet, of the boys’ varsity tennis team said he really thinks they have a shot at the district title.

“I know our number one priority is to win the district championship. We have yet to think past that. We will take one game at a time and only when we win districts will we think of a new goal,” said Marcus.

It’s going to be a great year for both the boys and girls. Tennis isn’t easy and giving them support really helps. Serve! Score! Win!