Girls tennis team tops St. Ed’s in season opener

The Clear Lake girls tennis team opened the season with an 8-1 victory over St. Ed’s on April 2.

With the exception of a very close number one singles match, in which Lindsey 

Loudenburg was defeated, 11-10, by 2014 state qualifier Lily Peterson, the Lions dominated.

“It’s nice to start the season on such a positive note, especially since several girls are playing in new positions,” said Coach Mary Jo Peterson.  “We can build on what we did well and also begin to focus on some areas that will help us improve throughout the season.”

Freshman Gretchen Jones, playing in her first varsity match, displayed patience and confidence in her play, according to her coach.  She won, 10-1.  Senior Kylie Bottjen and sophomore Kiersten Baalson followed with 10-2 and 10-0 wins.  Freshman Chloe Mueller had a close match, but won, 10-8.

“Chloe showed the ability to make adjustments  as she fought hard to come from behind to win her first tennis match,” said Coach Peterson.

Reagan Brackey  closed out singles play with a 10-5 victory.

In doubles play, Loudenburg and Jones were 9-8 winners (7-5 tiebreaker).  Bottjen and Kirsten Jordan teamed to post an 8-1 victory and Baalson and Brackey won, 8-3.