After a challenging match against Lynbrook on March 27, the boys tennis team fell to 6-1 in league play, but players say they remain optimistic about their performance and the team’s future.
Senior Carson Packard said their opponents have been tough, but also said he sees positives in the team’s effort.
“These guys are the best in the league, … but towards the end, we had a nice comeback going,” Packard said. “It was great for our confidence and great to win points with Ethan Kleiner. We’ve been doubles partners for a long time now, so the chemistry is definitely there.”
Despite the loss, senior and captain Leo Terman secured the team’s singular point after his opponent retired due to an injury.
“I think I played well,” Terman said. “My forehand could have been better, but I knew I could use my backhand to attack. My opponent didn’t have the best attitude, but I just focused on playing my game and not letting his anger distract me.”
Terman also said injuries have impacted the team’s performance, with two singles players retiring due to injuries and five key players missing from the starting lineup.
“If we had a full, healthy lineup, we could have won this match,” Terman said. “We had to move up some players who were lower in the lineup, and it was a tough situation.”
As the team looks ahead, Packard said he thinks players are focusing on both individual and collective improvement.
“My goal is to foster more connections with my teammates and become a more confident tennis player,” Packard said.
Terman agreed and emphasized his desire to improve his forehand and serve.
“I’ve been working on my forehand in practice, but I need to translate that work into matches,” Terman said. “Our goal as a team is to keep improving. We moved up leagues this year, so we’ve been losing more, but it’s helping us get match experience against high-level players.”
Despite the setbacks, Terman said the team remains motivated.
“Everybody is really respectful to each other, and our doubles players especially have great chemistry,” Terman said. “Even with a tough season, it’s nice to see people really involved in the sport.”
According to Terman, with a young roster and determination to improve, the team is hopeful for future matches and continued growth.
“I think the general goal is just to win,” Terman said.” Our team is pretty young, so they will be able to become better through this tough season and hopefully create a stronger team next season.”
The team’s next away game is on April 17 against Gunn at 4 p.m.