Varsity girls Tennis traveled to Regionals hosted by Topeka High. The team’s ranking fell between the expected and the unexpected. The team played 12 matches in total against schools from all over the region.  

Senior Cathy Lei took on four matches and won first place overall. Lei’s motivation and concentration paid off, as she, as Regional champion, qualified for State for her second year.

“It’s kind of bittersweet, because it’s my last year at State, I don’t want to let myself down so there’s a little bit of  pressure there, but ultimately I just try to play my best,” Lei said. “Winning was nice, but also just being with the team and they all cheered me on and I was also happy with the way I played, so that fact that I played to my ability.”

Senior Lexi Bieker played four matches and one was with a team member, Lei. Bieker also qualified for State, placing fourth overall.

“I had to play Lexi so that was interesting,” Lei said. “It was whatever because by the time we had to play each other we would be both in State already.”

Bieker relished in her wins.

“[The best part was] beating a Washburn girl, the one who was the one above the Washburn girl that beat me at league to get into State,” Bieker said.

Bieker didn’t expect to qualify, but put forth an enormous effort.

“Starting out with a win versus Junction City. Lexi had a very hard fought win in her second match versus Washburn Rural winning in a tie breaker to punch her ticket to play in Olathe next Friday,” coach Tony Ingram said.

However, not all qualified for State. Doubles junior Lauren Robben and freshmen Jill Broxterman played two matches against Topeka High with a score of 3-6 / 2-6, placing them in the 10th rank. Doubles senior Tracy Le and sophomore Neely Joyce played three matches placing them in the eighth rank.

“Neely and Tracy gave themselves a chance by winning their first round game, but then ran into some very good competition in their second round vs. the number one seed team.” Ingram said, “The team placed third overall at Regionals and is looking forward to State.

“I am very proud of all the girls,for their commitment and hard work they put in this season.” Ingram said. “It being my first year and bringing in a few changes, they were receptive to the changes and continue to work to improve their tennis skills.”