BLUE HILL—While the 2018 season was a building year for the George Stevens Academy varsity boys tennis team, returning players know the challenges ahead, in their own skills and in competitive matches.
“Last year, the guys were able to be challenged and see what areas they needed to improve on in the offseason,” Coach Mark Ensworth said. “They have come in ready to take the next step.”
Senior Kent Fang returns as first singles player and junior Quinn Stabler is set for the second singles spot.
“Both had good years last year and should do well again this year,” Ensworth said.
Freshman Connery Williamson has “a lot of potential,” and is taking on the third singles role.
The two doubles teams also have competitive match experience under their belts. “[Junior] Lars Hooper leads an experienced couple of groups,” Ensworth said, teaming with senior Chris Bennett for the first doubles team. The second team will again be filled by Liam Webb and Joey Mitchell.
“Both doubles pairs are excited to learn more about the strategy that comes with doubles, something we couldn’t get too far into last year being so young,” Ensworth said.
Like other Class C teams, depth in the Eagles team is a challenge, Ensworth said. “We are fortunate to have a handful of freshman playing this year as well as some veterans just outside the top seven. If we are to be successful we will need the guys outside the top seven to keep working hard and gain experience.”
With a 4-1, 4-1 doubleheader win against Lee Academy in their opener on April 22, the Eagles have already started its season in a positive way.
“Our goals are always to get better each week, be consistent, and limit unforced errors,” Ensworth said. “Our schedule is challenging, which makes for an exciting season.”
He continued, “The guys will do their best to accumulate as many Heal Points as possible to put ourselves in a position to make a playoff run.”
The Eagles host Deer Isle-Stonington Friday, April 26, at 4 p.m. on the GSA courts.
The 2019 George Stevens Academy boys tennis team includes, in front from left, Matt Astbury, Tony Politano, Chris Bennett, Joey Mitchell and Ricardo Sanchez. In back are Ben Hallett, Liam Webb, Lars Hooper, Quinn Stabler, Kent Fang and Connery Williamson. Photo courtesy of Larry Gray