The girl’s varsity tennis team has been “acing” their season so far with an impressive 9-3 record. Behind the success lay seven hard-working girls with an incredible bond: Audrey Rha, Amanda Wickenheisser, Audrey Lee, Aashi Shah, Anna Koch, Audrey Kuo, and Caitlin Eng.
From the beginning of the season, there has been visible chemistry within the team. The importance of unity is emphasized by a sophomore captain, Amanda Wickenheisser, through the notion that “the closer we are, the further we go”.
A Deeper Delve
Each of the players have contributed significantly and have their own astonishing achievements. Audrey Rha, a junior captain, recently placed first at counties for 1rst singles player, recognized for being a brick wall on the courts. Notable for her humor, Amanda Wickenheisser, a sophomore, has secured the spot of 2nd singles for two years in a row. At 3rd singles, lays Audrey Lee, with her impressive groundstrokes and kind personality. Aashi Shah, a freshman, and Anna Koch, a sophomore, play together at first doubles with their tight bond and strong net game. Taking the place of 2nd doubles are Caitlin Eng, a freshman, and Audrey Kuo, a sophomore, admired for their communication and volleys.
Game, Set, Match
When asked about preparing for a game, the team mentioned holding practices, rain or shine, to be in the best shape. Practicing their volleys, overheads, and placement, the team strives for victories. Audrey Lee states, “Strategy and mentality play an important role in a match. It’s important to stay calm and collected when things are not going your way,” when being asked about the game itself. With a different approach, Anna and Aashi rely on their catch phrase, “right here, right now” to get back on their feet and win points. Similarly, the rest of the team highlights the significant role confidence plays in matches.
Memories & Milestones
The team has shared numerous hits of laughter throughout the season. Among all the memories, Audrey Kuo’s favorites are the multiple reels they make and post (on wp.girlstennis- instagram) involving their tennis humor. Her doubles partner, Caitlin Eng, particularly enjoys the bus rides from a victory match with all the fun chaos and music playing. Other memories include getting revenge on St. Elizabeth after a previous loss, the ice cream truck after a win against Boonton, the team dinner, and having the best mascot: Som Som (Audrey Rha’s tiny dog who shows up to all events).
Looking into the future, the team outlines their goals for the rest of the season as well as next year. Anna Koch’s goals are improving her serve and practicing during the off season. Audrey Rha highlights, “our team goals are moving forward in states and winning our conference.”
As the girls varsity tennis team wraps up their season, they have numerous supporters cheering them, eager to see what they will accomplish. With their hard work, dedication, and unbreakable bond, the girls varsity tennis team is sure to finish off strong!
