Written by Coach Austin
The long-awaited season opener for the girls varsity tennis team did not disappoint. The weather in Groton, MA was excellent, with temperatures in the mid sixties and plenty of sun. Both teams had to contend with some gusting winds, but overall this was the team’s most pleasant day for tennis yet this year.
The Big Green swept the doubles matches to set a winning tone that would last the day. Tori Waterfall ’19 and Ashley Manning ’19 reunited to build on the success they have found in seasons past. They held a lead throughout their tilt. Strong volleys and winners down the line helped this pair stay out in front and finish their match 8-4. Isha Rao ’22 and Catalina Llorente ’19 debuted as doubles partners at second. Their match was a one-sided affair. Catalina’s steady net play and Isha’s dominant ground strokes kept their Groton opponents on the run. Deerfield started another veteran pairing at third doubles. Sophia Genender ’20 and Emma Weech ’21 shook off a few cobwebs in the first few games to find their old rhythm. These two players have grown into a doubles force for DA. Pairing power with patience, they will be tough to beat.
During the singles phase of the match, the team demonstrated their depth and talent. Isha Rao came out swinging in her first career start for Deerfield Academy. Isha covered the court beautifully, striking winners from the baseline and volleying out points at the net. The team scored wins at every singles position, dropping just two sets the entire day. This match’s final result was 13-2 for Deerfield (modified ISL format).
The team is back to work on Monday and will face off with Westminster School for a road match on Wednesday, April 10th.
Individual Results:
Doubles:
Manning/Waterfall, W 8-4
Rao/Llorente, W 8-1
Weech/ Genender, 8-3
Exhibition:
L’Esperance/ Glatt, L 4-8
Singles:
Isha Rao, W 6-0, 6-1
Ashley Manning, W 6-4, 6-1
Emma Weech, W 6-1, 6-3
Tori Waterfall, W 6-2, 4-6
Sophia Genender, W 6-4, 6-2
Catalina Llorente, W 6-1, 3-6
Order of finish: 1, 2, 3, 6, 5, 4