For the second time in three years, Upper Perkiomen's boys tennis team will feature several seniors. The current team will be led by its three singles players.
Head coach John Williamson describes Nick Pence, Evan Ratushny and Enoch
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Ethan Zonis, a senior on Upper Perkiomen's
tennis team, returns a shot during practice on
Monday.
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Padilla as the Indians' leaders. They are serving as captains.
He said a majority of 12th graders should fill most of the roster slots this season.
"It will be interesting to see what this group can accomplish," Williamson said. "It feels like there's a good camaraderie with the seniors. They want to do well for each other."
Pence – who begins his second season as the team's top singles player – has developed into an effective player, Williamson said. The player has become a student of the sport. "It's been fun watching him learn the strategy of the game," the coach said. "Nick has improved his footwork and become a more consistent player. I think he'll win some matches and be competitive with most of his opponents in the conference."
Ratushny, who played No. 3 singles last year, slides up a spot to start the current season. Williamson described him as a consistent performer. "Evan has improved over the years," the coach said. "He's a solid player. He's willing to do whatever is needed for the team."
Padillia, who played doubles as a junior, earned the nod at No. 3 singles. Williamson said the player put in the time over the winter to improve. "Enoch is a good fit at third singles," the coach said. "As a soccer player, he has good footwork and speed."
Dakota Williams and Kyle Schmoyer return as the Tribe's top doubles team. Williamson described Williams as an athletic performer who can be effective at the net.
"Hopefully they can take the step up and be a solid team," the coach said. "I think they can compete and win some matches."
Williamson identified Henry Queeney as one underclassman who could make an impact.
According to the coach, the sophomore utilized offseason lessons to turn himself into a pretty good player. "Henry is tall, he has a lot of reach and has good coordination," said Williamson.
The Tribe's doubles team accounted for its two victories against the Phoenixville Phantoms in the league opener on Tuesday.
Brayden Sanfelice and Ethan Zonis registered a 7-5, 6-4 win at No. 2 doubles. Elias Brendle and Queeney posted a 6-0, 6-1 victory at No. 4 singles. Ryan Cleary and Phil Schmitt, its No. 3 duo, lost 4-6, 3-6.
The team opens its home schedule today against Boyertown.