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Young HK Girls' Tennis Played Like Veterans to States

Bringing in a much younger team, HK girls' tennis Head Coach Patty Earley was uncertain on her squad's chances to reach the state tournament, although the Cougars' combination of youth and experience served them well for another postseason appearance.

Led by six seniors, including captains Mackenzie Earley and Jen Halleck, HK finished its regular season with a 10-8 mark to reach the qualifying round of the Class S State Tournament. Not only did the Cougars reach the states draw as a group, but Earley and junior Reilly Fitzgibbons each went to the State Open to cap off what ended up being a very successful year.

"HK tennis held its own this year. I wasn't even sure preseason if we'd qualify for states," said Patty Earley. "First of all, if it weren't for Mackenzie playing tennis, I would not have seen the opportunity to coach. She helped me with just about everything in this learning process. She was a pleasure to coach and will be missed next year as all the seniors will be. Jen Halleck was a four-year member of the team as well and one of the hardest workers. She had a passion for tennis and really took direction well and put it to good use in her matches."

Joining the pair of captains in the senior class were Allison Sheahan, Lex Regan, Hannah Casey, and Gwen Plum. Each member of this quartet made the necessary adjustments to step up and help the Cougars both on and off the courts.

"They made up most of the varsity positions. These girls, while not working at tennis during the rest of the year, were extremely athletic, and it helped with giving all of them winning records." said Coach Earley. "Both Lex Regan and Hannah Casey went from JV in 2013 to varsity in 2014 at No. 1 and 2 doubles, respectively, and did well."

According to the Cougars' coach, the proudest feat the club had this season was boasting an undefeated competitor in Mackenzie Earley at the No. 2 slot.

"I would say Mackenzie had the biggest accomplishment this year with being undefeated at No. 2 singles this year," said Coach Earley. "She really relaxed while playing and played her best season ever."

While parting with a half-dozen seniors, HK will look to bring in new blood by next spring in addition to working hard in the offseason with each member of the team doing everything in their power to help the Cougars grow.

"We will be losing six seniors this year which means the tennis team will need to do a lot of recruiting. It will be a true rebuilding year next year and will take a ton of hard work from not only the girls but me as well," said Coach Earley. "This was probably one of the best years as coach, as it was a real pleasure working with these girls."

Rounding out the Cougars were junior Signe Schwartz; sophomores Mary Coletti, Emma Martone, Allison Murphy, and Jackie Stephens; plus freshmen Sara Blanton, Natalie Brochu, Alexis Christoni-Petrucelli, and Alexa Pullman.