Although the boys varsity tennis team did not win States last year, this year’s team consists of new talent and promise. The team plans to improve their game match by match as the season progresses. The ultimate goal of the team is to uphold the tradition and legacy of DHS’ tennis program by being one of the leading teams in Division 2.

Before last year, DHS tennis as a program had not lost States since 2008. This year the team is looking to refocus itself and continue their winning ways.

“I feel really good about our team this year,” senior captain and no. 2 singles player Michael Szabo said. “We have a lot of new players and room for development.”

Specifically, the team has a few players that are thought to be dark horses, or lesser known teammates that are seeking a place on the big stage this year.

Szabo, who won States last year as an individual, believes that the no. 2 doubles team of junior J.J. Kirkman and sophomore Noah Nichols has potential to surprise not only their fans, but their opponents.

“[We’re] led by our successful leadership of Michael Szabo, Spencer Bouck, and Varun Shanker,” sophomore and no. 4 singles player Adi Middha said. “We have a lot more team chemistry [this year], and are much closer as a team.”

Middha believes that the whole team must support and be fully committed to each other if they want to reach the top ranks of Division 2 tennis. Middha also proposes that the team’s ultimate success will rely on the doubles lineups’ development, improvement, and play. The team will especially appreciate improved doubles play, considering an injury that continues to be a thorn in their side.

“I got hurt, but I’m still an active part of the team,” senior Colin Angell said. “I’ll still be attending the home matches and some of the more important tournaments.”

For Angell, being a part of the team this year is different than how he had planned. Last year, Angell was an important part the team, as he played in the no. 2 singles spot in the lineup and won States as an individual. Despite fracturing his right hip last spring, Angell is still looking to support the team and offer his guidance.

As a whole, DHS tennis is excited about their chance to perform and improve from last year.

“Our young players have been working really hard to improve,” Middha said, “I feel really good about our chances at States this year.”

By Brad Drenckpohl