By Caroline McDaniel

During warm-ups at the boys tennis match against Standley Lake, the boys varsity and junior varsity tennis team practiced their serves and volleys, along with forehands and backhands.

Some of the boys even got a few quick sets in playing against their teammates. While they waited for their opponents to show up, the Farmers had a team meeting to talk about tactics and introductions. After the meeting the boys lined up on the court to meet their opponents.

As their matches began, varsity played first, warming up with their opponents. They took some serves and volleys again, and then the match started. After about an hour, the Farmers faced a devastating, but well-played loss. There were many stupendous points earned. It was obvious that the boys tried their best but unfortunately could not pull a win. There was a great effort by senior Caleb Christensen but unfortunately some mistakes were made too.

When asked what his goals for the team this season are, coach Brian Sunderland said, “Our team is relatively young and new to varsity; we’re just hoping to improve throughout the season so that we can play our best during Regionals.”

Sunderland also has very high expectations for his players: “I expect my players to be gentlemen and show good sportsmanship during practices and matches. I expect them to represent each other and our school well at all times. As far as their effort goes I always expect 100% at all times. We may not get as many wins as last year, but I expect our opponents to get our best effort.”

Sunderland addressed, when asked, if his players had an effect on the way he coaches. He responded with, “Absolutely. When coaching a player during and match one has to coach to their style and abilities, both mental and physical. Our team has an enormous range of skill and age, so my individual conversations with our athletes will vary quite a bit during a match.”

It’s obvious that the boys tennis team is well disciplined and has much respect towards each other, the coach, and their opponents. After every match the boys shook hands and said “good job”. The varsity boys even stayed to watch and support their junior varsity teammates. After the last matches were done, the boys cleaned the courts and met one last time as a team so coach Sunderland could say his final words to the boys.