This year, there have been many changes due to COVID-19, but one thing stayed the same: the Varsity Girls Tennis Team continued to be successful.

Because of the pandemic, the girls had to wear masks and maintain a six foot distance from others. Not only that, they were not even able to touch their opponents’ tennis balls. 

Despite the added rules, the team’s bond became stronger throughout the season. The girls were very supportive of each other and were proud of their accomplishments. Senior Mia Shabow said, “I feel like our team was the closest we have ever been this season and I truly got close with every single one of my teammates.” 

Senior SJ Weidner and sophomore Kenzie Hyland were awarded the best doubles team in the conference. Their powerful duo was strong and intimidating on the tennis court. 

Last season, Weidner’s doubles partner was Class of 2020 alum Lizzy Herr. Before this season started, Weidner was worried she was going to have to play singles. But when she saw Hyland at tryouts, she got a really good feeling that she could be her new partner. 

Weidner described Hyland as nice, sweet, talented, and a determined teammate who does not give up during a hard match. She shared, “I am so grateful Kenzie was my partner and gave me such an amazing senior season. I seriously could not have done it without her and I’m so proud of her for having all of these accomplishments as a sophomore.”

This pairing was especially notable because Hyland usually plays on the volleyball team during the fall but, because of COVID, the volleyball season was moved to the spring leaving an opportunity for her to try out for tennis. 

Hyland is happy things worked out the way they did. She said, “I loved working with SJ. She is such a good team player and we bonded right away. As the season went on we definitely found each other’s strengths and worked off them. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner.”

Even with the added restrictions and stress of the 2020 season, the girls made the best of the situation. The team of 14 worked their hardest all fall resulting in a successful season. The team finished 3rd in the ESCC, #1 doubles team Senior SJ Weidner and Sophomore Mackenzie Hyland won 2nd place, and Senior Gabby Walsh won 2nd place at #1 Singles. Along with Weidner, Hyland and Walsh, Junior Mia Marano also qualified for State.