Houlton tennis teams show promise

Yesterday was the last home match for the Houlton High School varsity tennis teams.
This season, the boys’ team returned a strong core of players, having lost only one senior from last year’s top seven. Freshmen Zach Harvey and Lucas Anderson joined the team this year, who according to coach Jean Maunder, are playing matches and will help aid many up-and-coming players transitioning from junior high to high school matches.
    “Our strengths are that we have experienced players and doubles teams that have good communication skills and strategies,” Maunder said. “We are working hard on ball placement, moving more on the court and reducing unforced errors.”
With this season winding down, the Houlton boys’ squad is looking strong for next year, as well, even though they will lose eight of their 12 male players.
Senior Ashir Abouleish will be playing in the Regional Singles Tournament on Saturday.
The girls team didn’t lose anyone from last year’s team due to graduation, but they do have new faces on the team. Senior Sarah Gentle joined the team this year and is playing first doubles with Kelsey Fitzpatrick.
“We have had a difficult season so far, but are working hard on consistency and hitting away from the opponent,” said Maunder. “We are looking forward to next year and although we will lose Sarah and our other senior, Anna Caron, our team will be full of eager tennis players.”
The girls are yet to win a match this season.