Doubles teams lead Bulldogs at state tourney
SANDPOINT — A lot of variables go into setting a tennis lineup for districts, and if all goes well there, at state the next weekend.
One factor is how your district rivals stack their lineup. Another is getting as many players as possible to state, while also giving those who do go to state the best chance to succeed. Another is chemistry, especially this year, when the Bulldogs send four doubles teams to state.
Sandpoint head coach Kent Anderson considered it all before finally settling on his lineup, and believes all nine players he’s taking to state can win matches, which doesn’t always happen.
“The theory was to load doubles,” says Anderson, who was pleased with his team’s performance at the district tournament. “They earned it (state), now it’s all gravy.”
Leading the charge will be two strong doubles teams, each capable of grinding through the draw for a state medal, in both boys and girls.
Senior Megan Rockwell and junior Kennedy Search have the athleticism and experience to hold their own at state, provided they can conquer the ever-present nerves. Last year there were crowds in excess of 100 watching, including former Wimbledon champion Mats Wilander, whose kids play for Wood River High School from Sun Valley.
“If they’re on, they’re capable of going all the way,” believes Anderson of the two-sport standouts who started together on the volleyball team. “It’s just if they’re on their game under pressure.”
Seniors Micah Buckmiller and Alex Hon are a rare right/left handed team, which can cause fits for opponents who don’t often see it. It also helps that both have big serves and lots of power, and have played together before.
“They both have great volleys and both have been to state,” says Anderson of the pair, who also teamed up at state last year. “They made it to the quarters last year and they’re better this year.”
Two mixed doubles teams also figure to be in the mix for a high place, led by seniors Carson Nygren and Nicolette Jessen, who have been playing together for years and have great chemistry. Nygren’s power and Jessen’s consistency mesh well, and the two boast plenty of state experience.
Juniors Katie Mares and Collin Jurenka could surprise some people at state, after winning the first game at districts against their mixed doubles teammates before losing in three matches.
Both mixed teams have a chance to pick up some wins at a tournament where nothing comes easy.
“If Carson can control his forehand, he’s got more power than anyone at state,” says Andeson. “Katie and Collin are the most improved players on the team.”
Rounding out the Sandpoint state contingent is the lone singles player in senior Bailey Scrimsher. Speed, athleticism and stamina are her biggest strengths, and often times a dogged willingness to return every ball will trump firepower and experience, especially under the pressure of state.
“Bailey has the ability to up her game,” describes Anderson. “If she can hit at state like she does in practice, she can win some games.”
The state tournament runs today and tomorrow at the Boise Swim and Racquet Club.