Chapin High School Boys Tennis has become a dominant force in the past few years. But this year the team has lost many key players to graduation, leaving the team in the hands of younger, less experienced players. While some people may see this as a rebuilding year, the players hope that with hard work they can prove overcome the obstacles to win the state title for the third year in a row.

 Coach John Rogers said, “Everybody is shooting to take the Eagles down, so we will get every team’s best shot during the season. I would not have it any other way. Our biggest challenge is believing in ourselves after losing Kyle Koch, Alex Wallace, Chris Gardiner and Andrew Hill to graduation.”

 Last year’s seniors were all starters and a vital part of the success that led to their second state title. With their absence, the team knows they will have to beat the odds to make it three in a row. 

 “We always lose some good, quality players every year. The guys we lost were very good and very experienced, but they also trained the players we have now to carry on. I am very proud of what last year’s seniors accomplished during their time,” said Rodgers.

 At the same time, this year’s starters are not to be taken lightly.  They include Jeffrey Koch, Sean Koch, Alex Arkin, Duncan Brown, Michael Nichols, Zac Murray, and August Kibler. These players know what it is like to win a state championship title and know what they have to do to win it again.

 Junior Jeffrey Koch said, “By doing my part for the team, whether if it is cheering my teammates on or trying to win my match, I hope I can help lead the team to win state.”

The team is off to a great start so far, winning five out of their six matches. They lost toLexingtonbut with every loss comes a lesson.

 Senior Alex Arkin said, “All the matches are going to be tough. But for us to win state again this year, we are going to have to fight for every point.”

 Two of most challenging competitors on the path to a three-peat are Camden and Hilton Head.  Tough competition and challenges aren’t going to keep the Eagles from going after the state title. Rodgers seems hopeful about this year as long as the players keep their drive to win.

 “With hard work and steady improvement throughout the season, hopefully, we will have a shot at three in a row once we get into the state playoffs,” said Rogers.

  Although the team has some challenges this year with their age and experience, they know it is possible to bring another championship trophy home. The players, fans, and CoachRogershope to keep the tradition of winning in the hands of the Chapin Varsity Boys Tennis team.