EHS Tennis Team Set For Season

Effingham High School's girls tennis team will have a strong and developing team this year led by five returning seniors.

"We have a deep roster with many younger players including two exchange students," said EHS Coach Angela Woods. "With a solid work ethic we expect to see continual development throughout the season."

The seniors include:

Lauren Hoekstra at the No. 1 position is a three-time Apollo Conference champion as well as three-time state qualifier. She played throughout the summer reaching the finals of several tournaments.

"As co-captain I expect her to serve as a leader with her experience for the younger players," said Woods.

Madisson Haake, co-captain, has been on the varsity squad in both singles and doubles for three years.

"She is an aggressive player with excellent volleys." said Woods."I look to her positive attitude to boost us through the toughest opponents.

"Kaitlyn Gurley, also three years on varsity singles and doubles has grown into a consistent player with a great attitude.

"Gabby Klein moved into a solid support role last year. We look to her doing so again this year. She's continued to work on her game this summer.

"Katelyn Workman was new to tennis last season playing doubles for us."

"Juniors include returning varsity player Bethany Vail, Claudia Vinuela Ayllon, a skilled exchange student from Spain, and Olivia Miller who is new to the team this year.

"Two sophomores returning, who have improved and clearly enjoy the game are Savannah Blake and Kaylee Fred. New to the team this year from the sophomore class are Ashley Workman and Tori Sims.

"This season brings six freshmen to the team with their enthusiasm and experience with some USTA team and/or private lesson experience."

The new Hearts are Megan Allen, Paige Dill, Shelby Funneman, Emma Kull, Miranda Johnson and exchange student from Korea, Grace Cheon.

"They each bring some natural talent that will be the backbone for this and future teams," continued Woods.

Coach Woods is supported by assistant coaches Lisa Hoekstra, Allie Meyer (EHS '07)' and Sara Johnson (EHS '04).

"I'm excited and extremely pleased to have so many new and returning players to give depth to the team this year. I'm grateful for our assistant coaches, Lisa for her strategic focus of the game, and it is great to have Allie and Sara as recent EHS graduates bring their talent and experience back home to share."