Temple, Search to lead deep Sandpoint tennis team in 2015
SANDPOINT — It’s quality over quantity for the Sandpoint tennis team in 2015, with 27 players turning out, a drop from past number.
But the players that turned out mean business, and the team possesses strengths that any head coach would love to have.
“We’re deep. Everyone hits well, and the practices have been great,” said head coach Kent Anderson, a former University of Montana player who will be assisted this season by Patty Aunan, herself a former Gonzaga coach. “We have 27 kids who want to be tennis players, no one wants to leave practice. It’s a great group, just so much fun to work with.”
Leading the boys team will be senior captain Spencer Temple, who features a well-rounded game and could end up playing eithersingles or doubles, depending on how the district talent matches up.
“He’s playing like a No. 1,” described Anderson. “He keeps it in play and hits hard. He’s just tough.”
Right behind him is a pack of three players that are very even and will push each other in senior captains Broc Storro and Daniel Durfee, and sophomore Patrick Rockwell.
“The cream is rising to the top,” claimed Anderson. “The top four players are really starting to come on.”
Rounding out the boys varsity will be junior Bradley Russell, and sophomores Logan Temple and Reilly Wolfe.
The girls team also features great depth, which bodes well for practices, where the teammates can push each other to improve.
Sophomore Laney Search has emerged as the No. 1 singles player, eager to improve after finishing second in the 4A state doubles last year with older sister Kennedy Search.
“She was really strong in the finals last year at state and she’s markedly better,” said Anderson of his two-sport player. “Being a volleyball player she has natural power, and hits hard and consistent, with smooth strokes.”
Senior Cassidy Story is a strong No. 2, boasting three years of varsity experience and the ability to play very consistent and thrive in big matches.
“She doesn’t choke under pressure,” lauded Anderson. “She never has, and that’s huge.”
Senior captain Sadie Nitcy also returns with plenty of varsity experience, and will lead a balanced lineup that includes senior Lauren Hon, juniors Caroline Suppiger and Violet Plummer, and sophomores Liz Parsley and Chloe Kyllonen.
Priest River senior Caitlyn Cole, a tall player with power, will play for the Bulldogs, but must compete at the 3A meet at districts. She’ll give the team a strong presence at the net.
“They’re all experienced,” described Anderson of the girls team. “They know hot to get the ball in.”
Moscow will be strong this season, which will dictate how lineups are set for the district tournament, as the Bulldogs will look to qualify as many players to state as possible.
Sandpoint travels to Spokane today to face tennis power Mead, weather permitting.