Jonathan Alder’s boys tennis team is pictured from left, front row, Josh Weakley, Shardul Kadam, Max Metz, Joel Mitchell, Gideon Sullivan, Isaac Banks and James Ratliff; second row, Daisy Henderson, Jacob Weakley, Derek Rodriguez, Vaughn Xabouathone, Sean Gluntz and Jaxen Taber; third row, assistant coach Bryan Deeken, Noah Kuck, Seth Dickman, Conner Boggs, Elijah Harriman, Drew Corbitt and head coach Ryan Swinehart. Not pictured, Jason Thompson.
(Photo submitted)
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Jonathan Alder’s boys tennis team should have another strong season this spring.
The Pioneers posted an overall record of 15-5 during the 2023 campaign.
They won 11 of 14 Central Buckeye Conference matches and placed second behind co-champions Bellefontaine and Northwestern, both of which went 12-2 in the circuit.
“We should be very competitive in the CBC this year,” said coach Ryan Swinehart. “We will rely heavily on our seniors, as six of our seven varsity spots are currently filled by athletes in that class.”
Senior Isaac Banks and junior Gideon Sullivan will lead the way respectively at first and second singles.
“They will give us a lot of experience as both are playing varsity for the third straight year,” said Swinehart.
Senior Josh Weakley will be strong at third singles.
“Josh should compete for all-conference honors at that spot,” said the coach.
“Another strong spot will be our first doubles team as we return all-conference doubles player senior Drew Corbitt,” said Swinehart.
Rounding out the varsity team will be seniors Connor Boggs, Seth Dickman and Noah Kuck.
Senior James Ratliff and sophomore Max Metz will also be looked to for contributions throughout the campaign.
“The competition in the CBC will be really high this year as Northwestern has a returning state qualifier,” said Swinehart. “They also have some very talented freshmen, along with returning last year’s conference-winning doubles teams.
“Bellefontaine came on strong to tie for a conference title last year and returns much of that team,” said the Alder coach.
“London made a huge leap forward in the conference last season (third at 9-5) and will look to continue that momentum as they continue to gain talent and experience.”