Junior high tennis wraps up season

The Albany junior high tennis program wrapped up its season in dominant fashion, with both the 7th and 8th grade girls teams winning district championships and the 8th grade boys doubles team earning a second-place finish.

“It was a great season — lots of hard work, fun and learning,” said head coach M.J. Reneau. “I’m very proud to have so many be part of the program.”

Players from Abilene Christian, Hawley, Stamford and Albany were entered in the junior high tournament.

Despite limited numbers on the boys’ side, Albany still made a strong showing at the boys matches held Friday, May 2 at Abilene High School. Weather didn’t end up affecting the event, and the boys played 6-set matches.

“We didn’t know if numbers would hurt us, but nine out of 11 boys came home with medals,” Reneau said. “I’m very proud of both our 7th and 8th grade boys.”

The girls tournament on Monday afternoon, also held at Abilene High, saw nearly 40 matches played. Rain forced shortened sets to four games, win by two, but Albany didn’t miss a beat.

“Our 7th grade girls scored 45 points – the next closest team had 30,” Reneau said. “The 8th grade girls finished with 35; second place had 25.”

Albany’s Lilly Ford and Presley Rosales brought home gold in 7th grade girls doubles, with Willa Early and Karter Thompson earning the third place spot. The 8th grade girls doubles team of Keeley Britting and Avery Gleitz was the top finisher, with Hailey Gleitz and Tinley Hefner in third.

Hattie Fikes was the gold medalist in 8th grade girls singles, while Burkley Yeates got the silver medal in 7th grade girls singles

“We had four weeks of practice this year, including several early morning sessions,” Reneau added. “They showed up with great attendance, and it paid off.”

With 23 girls in junior high tennis and many showing interest in continuing, Reneau is confident in the program’s future. 

“We’re losing two seniors, but I feel like some of these younger players will stick with it.”