In her first year as coach of the Ellsworth tennis team, Deb Talbott’s Lady ‘Cats finished as league and regional champions and tied for 5th place at state.

She expects this season to hold more good memories.

“While each year is a continuation of an individual player’s tennis career, for the team it is a new start and a new season to be treated as a fresh and unique experience.

“This season will be an opportunity for the young ladies to create memories on and off the court. Those memories will be created in the journey rather than the destination. This group will undoubtedly make it an exciting and memorable journey.”

Lost to graduation were members of the No. 1 doubles team of Cassidy Kroboth and Kassie Sheridan and the No. 1 singles player, Kara Hays. Madison Tully and Tiffany Keller also are gone.

“These graduating seniors will be missed for their leadership on the court. They set the bar high and motivated the rest of the team to reach their potential,” Talbott said.

Returning varsity players are Jaycee Cunningham, Jaide Talbott and Stephanie Soukup.

Other returning players are: Hayley Sanchez, Hailey Bunch, Cassie Most, Rachel Sebesta, Stormy Thompson, Maggie Windholz, Sarah Fay and Nicole Haase.

They will be joined by players from the 2018 junior varsity team, which ended the season with three first-place and two second-place finishes.

“Coachability is a strength of this year’s squad. They listen and are intent on applying new skills and strategies on the court,” Talbott said.“Several of the players have dedicated summer hours to refining their tennis skills and mental tenacity. Commitment to improving their talents in the off season will have a positive impact on their upcoming season.

“While there are tough teams in our league, we will be competing against ourselves first. Daily personal improvement is our first goal. When this happens, the team will be able to compete at the highest level possible.”

Jason Maisog is assistant coach.

Girls’ varsity tennis started Tuesday of this week with the Ellsworth Invitational.