NEW LENOX, Ill. — Lincoln-Way Central girls’ tennis enters 2025 with a much different look after graduating 15 seniors from last year’s roster. Head coach Eric Balluff said the Knights return just one starter, senior Kailyn Nakoneozny, but he believes a talented group of underclassmen is ready to step in.
“We were just a point short of winning the sectional last year,” Balluff said. “That was a big goal of ours, and while we fell a little short, we had two state qualifiers and a group that played varsity for a long time. Now it’s a new era, and Kailyn is my only returning starter.”
Among the newcomers is sophomore Ava Blaze, who has impressed with her offseason commitment. Balluff called her one of the team’s best hitters and expects her to make an immediate impact after moving up from JV.
The Knights’ goals include finishing in the top three of the conference and contending for a sectional title. Nakoneozny, who is shifting into a bigger doubles role, said she is eager to build on last season. Blaze added that she hopes to win matches while enjoying the experience and forming strong team bonds.