The girls tennis team is optimistic about its upcoming season. With nine returning varsity players, the team appears to be set for success. After a fourth place finish in the 2023 season, one of the team’s main goals this year is to finish top-three in the conference tournament, Clint Buetikofer, varsity coach said. Another goal is to have players qualify for the state tournament this season.

“We have five returning Sectional players; none of them made State last year, but we’re hoping to qualify a few this year,” Buetikofer said. 

Buetikofer also mentioned that it was a tough sectional last year. This season, he hopes the team will be even stronger. 

While the varsity squad is mainly made up of upperclassmen, there are three sophomores and one freshman on the team, Buetikefer said. One of the top new players is freshman, Elise Novey ‘28. 

One of the team’s strengths is the great chemistry, Novey said.  

“The team environment is great. Everyone is supportive of each other and going to meets as a team is a lot of fun,” Novey said.

Varsity player Mia Graziano ‘25 is looking forward to getting to know Novey and watching her grow as a player, she said. 

“I’m really glad we have Elise this year; we need strong players coming in, especially with the large number of upperclassmen graduating,” Graziano said.  

Graziano has been a varsity player for four years and has high hopes for the 2024 campaign.

 “A goal for both the team and me is to place at least third in the conference tournament this season,” Graziano said. “Another goal I have for the team is to get closer to ensure we are able to trust each other on and off the court.” 

One way the team comes together off the court is with pasta parties before meets, Buetikofer said. These parties help build the supportive community Graziano and Novey are focused on developing. 

The team is off to a good start. On Thursday, Aug. 29, the girls took down Neuqua Valley High school, winning the match 4-3. Up next, the girls take on Downers Grove North High School on Oct. 1 at the SC tennis courts.