On Monday afternoon, girls varsity tennis played Washburn as their homecoming senior night match. Despite the 2-5 loss, the Spartans came together for their five varsity and four JV seniors, taking pride in the work they have done as they near the end of the regular season.
Elaborate chalk art spelled out the names of seniors on the courts where they played matches. Parents brought cakes. Balloons covered the equipment shed, tied next to big posters of each senior.
Freshman Addy Davies is sad to end a season with such strong mentors.
“They are some of the most supportive people there and we will miss them,” Davies said.
The captains have brought together the team this year creating a positive atmosphere that transcends the varsity roster.
Senior Cassandra Overholt was new to the team this year, switching last minute from the volleyball team: “I feel very supported by my teammates; I’m glad that I got to play fall sports,” she said.
Overholt has a busy week as one of the Spartans this year, but was still excited to have tennis Senior Night scheduled during homecoming week.
“It’s exciting but a little hectic… it’s exciting seeing everything happen at one time,” said Overholt.
Mark Thomas, the parent of senior Liza Thomas has been following Spartan athletics for “a very long time,” he said, as a school alum and parent of two athletes. He views this group of seniors as especially supportive.
“They more like friends: each other’s supporters and teammates first and individual players second,” Mark Thomas said.
He spent the night taking photos and cheering extra hard for all the girls. Thomas enjoyed watching the team and their togetherness.
With just one more regular season game, the girl’s tennis season is closing out. The tennis team will play on Sep. 26 against Mounds Park Academy for their final conference game.