Williamstown tennis building off momentum
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WILLIAMSTOWN -- Winning a boys state title and placing third in the girls division definitely left an impression with schools across the state for the Williamstown tennis program.
The Yellowjackets feel a repeat for the boys and a deep run for the girls is in the making, so they beefed up the schedule with some of the heavy hitters, regardless of classification.
Williamstown's West Virginia portion of the schedule includes Morgantown, Washington, Cabell Midland and Parkersburg from the Class AAA ranks.
"When we put our schedule together, we had triple-A schools call us based on what they heard about us around the state," Williamstown assistant coach Dave Leo, who is the husband of head coach Diana Leo. "We are playing an Ohio Division I school (Avon Lakes) from the Cedar Point area. They played our kids in a tournament in October at Greenmont Racquet Club and were quite impressed with our guys and girls.
"It will be a tough schedule because our kids are playing some of the top-rated guys and girls this season, and our kids deserve that. "
Williamstown's top male player, sophomore Austin Bosgraf, paired up with senior Gavin Bosgraf for a state championship at No. 1 doubles and during the offseason won a singles title for his age group in tournament in Cincinnati. Senior Rainer Holl figures to play at No. 2 singles, while sophomore Tyler Fenton hopes to turn in an effort like last season when he won a state title at No 3 singles and No. 3 doubles.
Gavin Bosgraf rounds out the top four in singles.
"Freshman Brandon Gray should do great stuff as well," Dave Leo said. "The guys who gained experience last season have taken the younger players under their wings and prepped them. Their main goal is to get back to state.
"Together with the girls team, everyone (has) bought into the culture of what Williamstown tennis has been in previous years."
The entire high school program consists of 10 boys and 12 girls. Returning at No. 1 singles is senior Taylor Isaly, who earned all-state honors. Fellow seniors Lauren Strobl, London Flores and Audrey Fenton round out the top four in singles. Fenton placed runner-up at state at No. 4 singles, while Lauren and Claire Strobl placed second at No. 3 doubles.
Freshman Ashtyn McIntire and sophomore Claire Strobl give the Yellowjackets a solid nucleus.
"Both squads are highly driven, competitive and conditioned -- they are ready," Diana Leo said.
Contact Kerry Patrick at kpatrick@newsandsentinel.com