SEARCY, AR. — (LP) The Searcy High School tennis team, coached by Dr. Miles “Doc” Watson has started the season with tremendous success. So far the girls team is 8-6-1 overall, and the boys are 14-1. Their success is due in part to the tremendous effort of the team’s off-season. They have put in tireless work over the course of their summer both as a team, and individually. Many of the team’s players can be seen after school, or on weekends on the tennis courts doing their best to perfect their game.
Searcy’s tennis team has performed remarkably in recent years, achieving district champs the past two years and looking to expand that into a state championship. Although they have a very strong team this year, it is going to be a very difficult challenge to take on some of the top teams in the state. Jonesboro has proven to be a remarkable challenge for Searcy’s team in years past and from the looks of it could be their greatest opponent this year. Coach Watson has already put forth goals for his team however, “As of last year, it’s a bit harder for players to qualify for state. I’d like to see more of us qualify this year. If we can do that, we can make a serious run at a state title.”
Many of the players share in Watson’s optimism. Alex Covington, a senior on the tennis team, voiced his confidence in his teammates, “We have some really talented people this year that we can depend on. I think that we are a favorite for conference champs, and a definite contender for state tournament this year.” Talent is not in short supply for this year’s team. “I believe that our most difficult opponent this year is going to be ourselves,” Alex said. “As long as we can stay focused and continue to practice there’s no reason that we wouldn’t be this year’s state champs.”
For any students looking to go support their lions, the tennis team plays nearly more than once a week and would greatly appreciate your support! The tennis team would find it helpful if everyone came out to support them and cheer them on at their next match against Jonesboro at home on Tuesday, September 24th. Every student in attendance would be greatly appreciated and may give our team the confidence and support to be able to make it to the next level, and achieve the state championship they’ve strived for.
