Bourne Girls' Tennis Team

By: Dan Crowley
Published: 03/26/10

After missing the state tournament last year the Bourne High girls’ tennis team has its sights set of reaching the post-season this spring.

“The girls have been working hard on their fitness in practices and that should keep us in matches,” Coach Andrew Arki said. “I expect us to be improved, and our goal is to return to the state tournament.”

The Lady Canalmen have missed post-season play for the last two years, but this season the mix of veteran and newcomer talent could send BHS to the tournament.

“I believe we have the potential to be a winning program and get back to the tournament,” Arki noted. “This is a great group of kids.”

Several players are battling for the top three singles spots. Sophomore Molly Cahill played at second singles last year and looks ready to move up.

“Molly is extremely talented,” the coach explained. “She is a natural left-handed player, which can be an advantage, and she is a returning veteran.”

Alex Duxbury is also returning to the court this spring.

“Alex is a consistent shot maker,” Arki said. “She played mostly at third singles last year and has powerful ground strokes.”

Senior Mahalie Shorrock played mostly at first doubles last year, but may move into a singles spot.

“Because of her athleticism Mahalie could be playing in multiple spots,” the coach pointed out. “She is a fiery competitor.”

Sophomore Jessica Klier played doubles for most of the season last spring.

“Jess has great ground strokes,” Arki said. “She has good footwork and is athletic.”

A newcomer to the roster this spring, freshman Amanda Wright is vying for a spot among the top three singles players.

“Amanda has really impressed me in preseason,” the coach noted. “She has a range of shot-making ability, including exceptional topspin on her ground strokes. She probably has enough talent to find a position in the starting seven.”

Doubles is stacked with veterans this spring. Four-year veteran Melissa Parsons will captain the team. Last season Parsons played at both first and second doubles. Sophomore Elveera Lacina played second doubles last spring and received the team’s “Best Effort Award.” Seniors Abby Barnicoat and Kim Ohnemus are returning. Barnicoat did play some singles for the Lady Canalmen last year, and freshman Monica Bowen joins the squad looking for a spot among the doubles ranks.

“I’m really looking forward to working with this group individually and as a team,” Arki added. “They all have shown promise and have a great learning attitude.”

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