The Chapin Girl’s Varsity tennis team has a long tradition of strong and talented players… and this year is no different.

After an impressive 09-10 season going 13-4, the Eagles finished runner-up in the region.  However, the loss of seven seniors including half the starting line up will definitely be a challenge.  A challenge likely to be filled by singles player’s Savanna Fuller, Savannah Melonas, Kayla Gearhart, Ashley Bauer, Amber Johnson and doubles players Claire Mariaca and Kelsey Wolfe.

In addition last year’s veterans, five more middle school students have made the roster:  Olivia Cartwright, Mary Kathryn Dixon, Emily Head, Lydia O’Conner, Coco Wong. 

Sophomore Katie McDaniel says, “The newcomers are very easy to get along with.  They are all mature enough to know that tennis is a big deal to us.”

The team keeps an active schedule all week to show just what big deal it is. With matches on Tuesdays-Thursdays, Monday-Wednesday practice, and Friday challenge matches, the team is not resting on last year’s wins.

“We are going to put everything that we have into practice, because practice doesn’t make perfect.  Perfect practice makes perfect,” says Junior Claire Mariaca.

Coach John Rodgers has been proud of the team so far this year. He says all of the girls have the potential to be successful as long as they put their best effort in everything they do.

Coach Rogers says, “We’re not rebuilding. We’re reloading.  The girls have played better than anticipated. Youth is being served.”

So far the team is 3-1 with a hard loss to region rival AC Flora and equally difficult Dreher on the horizon.

Sophomore Jeffrey Koch comes to the home matches to watch the ladies play.

He says, “The enthusiasm on the player’s faces as they whip the ball over the net and the excitement on their faces as they score another one for the team brings joy to every aspect of my body.  The girl’s tennis team has inspired me to become more active in the CHS experience because of their commitment and perseverance.”