Lincoln-Way Central’s girls tennis team is gearing up for a season marked by fresh opportunities following the graduation of nearly its entire lineup.
Head coach Eric Balluff explained that the Knights will depend significantly on players advancing from the junior varsity (JV) team, which secured the conference title last season. “Basically my whole JV team is varsity now,” Balluff said. “They proved themselves last year, and now it’s their chance to compete at the next level.” He attributed the successful transition to the offseason efforts of players like sophomore Ava Blaze, noting, “She put in a ton of time, and now she’s one of our best hitters.”
According to Nakoneozny, the only returning starter, the Knights are prepared to embrace this challenge. “We want to have a better season than last year and compete in every match,” she said.
Blaze expressed her straightforward approach: win matches, remain competitive, and enjoy herself. “I hope to accomplish a lot but also enjoy the experience,” she said.
Balluff outlined ambitious goals for the team, aiming for a top-three finish in the conference and pursuing a sectional championship. He said his belief that this young group is ready to surprise their opponents.
