With just three returning seniors, LO will be rebuilding
With just three seniors returning to the Live Oak girls varsity tennis team, the team, which was one of the high school programs originally axed because of budget concerns before being reinstated, will have a tough time this year.
The Tri-County Athletic League is a tough league, and it is even tougher without a full team.
But coach Ignacio Herrera is optimistic that the program will rebound if enough girls become committed to the sport.
“We will be rebuilding this year,” said Herrera, who coached both boys and girls teams last year. “Live Oak is at a crossroads right now. Until classes start and we have a few more players out, it is hard to tell how we’ll do.”
Herrera has been campaigning for freshmen from Britton and Murphy to try their hand out at the sport even if they haven’t had any experience.
Although it may be frustrating at the start for them, Herrera said the experience will be invaluable.
He’s seen people like freshmen Shaila Papel come out to practice with the dedication it takes even though they may still be a little “fresh.”
The three returning players this year are Mallarie Stevens, Amanda Bouchette and Kim Wakatsuki.
“Our best players have either graduated or moved away,” Herrera said. “There are a number of good tennis players in Morgan Hill. I’ve seen some fifth graders that could probably beat some of the seniors. If Live Oak had all those kids that go to other schools, the tennis team would be one of the best.”
Stevens will be the leader on the team this year and may have a chance for a league championship, Herrera said.
“From what I saw last year and as long as there aren’t any phenoms moving into the area, she has a good chance at a title,” Herrera said. “She is doing well and is very resolved. She needs to work on her net game more. If she gets that down, she will do very well. She is working hard at it.”
It is possible to pick up the game and do well even without any experience, Herrera said. Live Oak senior Chris Laskodi, who began playing tennis during his freshman year, is the perfect example of someone who has worked hard to get better.
Laskodi is another athlete who may have a chance at a league title, Herrera said.
The tennis season begins on Sept. 16. Any female athlete who has had a physical and keeps a 2.0 GPA is encouraged to come out to practice during the week.
The practices run from about 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and all are welcome.
