LHS girls’ tennis team gears up for new season with experienced roster
As the 2024 girls’ tennis season is set to kick off this weekend, the Lennox High School tennis team is set to build on its experience and depth, guided by head coach Kevin Plank, now entering his eighth year at the helm. With a mix of seasoned players and enthusiastic new talent, the team is poised for a competitive season.
Coach Plank is particularly optimistic about the returning players, many of whom have several years of varsity experience.
“We graduated four seniors from last year’s squad, and two of them competed at the varsity level. So, we have a good group of returners with some experience that can step in and be successful right away,” said Plank. “Some of the key returners are seniors Madison Buehner and Grace Dressen, they are great leaders who each have multiple years of varsity experience. We also have returning letter winners Brooke Buehner, Macy Wallenstein and Miriam Welch from last year’s squad.”
This season, Plank will be assisted by two volunteer coaches, Lizzy Buehner and Andrew Daugherty, both former players who spent all seven of their high school years under his guidance. Their experience and knowledge will be invaluable as they contribute to the team’s development.
The team’s first match is set for this Friday, Aug. 16 in Harrisburg. Lennox is set to face off against the Tigers at 2 p.m.
Reflecting on last season, Plank noted the team’s resilience and growth, despite losing four seniors, including two varsity players. This year’s roster boasts six of the top eight players returning, giving Lennox a solid foundation to build upon.
“I think our experience and our depth will be our primary strengths this season,” Plank said. “ We have six of our top eight players returning and our depth of talent will hopefully push all the players everyday in practice to improve.”
Looking ahead, Plank identifies Rapid City Christian and St. Thomas More as the main competitors this year but acknowledges that there are always a few surprises each season.
“There will be a handful of teams that we will be very competitive with,” he remarked. “A few of the duals might come down to just a match or two.”
One of the most exciting developments for the team this season is the addition of six new courts at Lennox High School. The courts are scheduled to be completed in September.
“I can’t describe how excited I am to have six new courts at the High School!” Plank exclaimed. “We by far have had the worst court situation in the state, and now I will be able to have more effective and productive practices. I am especially looking forward to finally hosting some home matches!”
As the season kicks off, the team has set its sights on finishing with a winning record and seeing some players make the podium at the state tournament in Rapid City.
“The team and I are excited to start competing,” Plank said. “There are some girls that have put in extra time in the offseason, and we are excited to get things rolling. We’d love to end the season with a winning record and have some players make the podium at the state tournament in Rapid City. “
On the team this season are the following athletes (* denotes returning starters):
Madison Buehner*; Grace Dressen*; Mackenzie Gilland; Holly Gillick; Brianna Slack; Macy Wallenstein*; Miriam Welch*; Karly Bosma; Kenzie Bosma; Brooklyn Buehner*; Rebekah Schroeder; Ella Ellwein; Maliyah Hofer; Lily Kezar; Sierra Wesseling; Adaleigh Wesseling; Izzy Gerdes; and Gracie Wood.
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