Kirby leads Bulldog tennis team

SPOKANE — Freshman Kevin Kirby lost a tough three-set match at No. 2 singles in the first round of Inland Empire Tennis Tournament in Spokane on Friday, then bounced back to win his next two matches in consolation to remain the lone Bulldog still playing in the tournament today.

Kirby played well in the loss to Mt. Spokane, then bounced back to win in three sets against Toppenish and straight sets against Riverside.

“Kevin took his game to a new level and dismantled (Riverside opponent) with his all court game,” said Bulldogs coach Kent Anderson.

Abby Helander and Piper Wahlin won their first match at No. 1 girls doubles against Moses Lake, before being eliminated in the second round by Lakeside. No. 2 doubles team Sophia Meulenberg and Susan Williams beat North Central in straight sets before falling to Coeur d’Alene.

Mikka Nostdahl and Jackson Bussard beat Davenport in the first round at No. 1 boys doubles, then fell to No. 1 seeded Richland in straight sets.

Justine and Dash Kamp lost to Central Valley at No. 1 mixed doubles, then beat Clark Fork’s Celeste Komanec and Nate nesbitt 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 in the first round of consolation before being eliminated by Othello. Ben Hardy and Steven Gavin lost both of their matches at No. 2 boys doubles.

Kirby plays in the championship round this morning at 8:30 a.m.