Trending
WILLIAMSTOWN -- In addition to a second consecutive boys state tennis title and back-to-back regional titles by both the boys and girls teams, Williamstown High School also proved their worth in the classroom with a 4.2 cumulative GPA.
Just for good measure, the seven members who graduated from the Yellowjacket tennis program earned nearly half a million dollars in college scholarships.
So on and off the court, that's a combination worth savoring.
"I am so proud and privileged to coach these dedicated players," WHS coach Diana Leo said. "Their conduct on and off the court is exemplary, and I really enjoy their camaraderie."
Williamstown should make another strong run, especially on the boys side with a lineup which is for the most part intact from a year ago. Austin Bosgraf returns to No. 1 singles and No. 1 doubles. The junior captain earned all-state honors in singles and successfully defended his state title in doubles. Classmate Tyler Fenton moves up the ladder to No. 2 singles.
No. 3 doubles is in good hands with senior Matt Easter and sophomore Brandon Gray. Easter won a state title at No. 2 doubles two years ago, while Gray claimed a state title at No. 3 doubles last year.
Sophomore Gavin Hill, who completed the second half of the No. 3 doubles state champion team, ranks third on the singles ladder and is followed by Gray at No. 4. Hill and freshman Brady Woodard are the selected pair at No. 2 doubles.
On the girls side, the top four singles players graduated. But if a 7-0 dual match win over Winfield is any indication, the transition for this season should be a smooth one.
Junior Claire Strobl has the early grip at No. 1 singles, followed by junior Athenn Stewart, sophomores Ashtyn McIntyre and Gabi Holl. Stewart and Strobl won a state title at No. 3 doubles last season.
As for the doubles entries, the coaching staff are still tinkering with possible matchups.
"Our players bought into the program for the 2021-22 season, and they are committed to strengthening it this year," WHS assistant coach Dave Leo. The success from last year's seniors built a solid foundation. I'm looking forward to the contributions from our upcoming players for our competitive program."
Class AAA program Cabell Midland gave the Williamstown boys their only loss last season, while the Yellowjacket girls experienced just two losses (Class AAA's Huntington and Parkersburg High).
WHS welcomes Amy Strobl as a new member to its coaching staff.
"It's a gift to join a team where the players are already technically strong and mentally tough," Amy Strobl said. "I can't wait to be a part of the journey this season. Diana and Dave Leo have established a top-notch program with players who put in the work in the offseason. It's a bonus that this group is just fun to be around."
Contact Kerry Patrick at kpatrick@newsandsentinel.com