Strength in numbers.

The key to Girls Tennis’ success is their depth.

“I think this year is honestly the best team we’ve had skill-wise because we have a very deep roster,” senior captain Annie Hedges, a three year starter, said. “Our team is consistently good all the way down the lineup.”

The senior heavy squad brings experience and knowledge to the game and sets the standard for future teams.
“We have a lot of seniors and some quality juniors behind them who can for sure hold their own,” coach Joyce Anderson said.

The Kits started the season with a 5-2 win against Elk Grove, who the Kits have beat in the season’s first match for the last four years.

Every season, regardless of the Evanston’s skill level, the chemistry between the members of the team has brought them together.

“I think our team gets along really well,” Hedges said. “Most of our team has been together for a long time so we know each other really well, but we also have gotten to know the new players quickly. We do a lot together outside of tennis as well, which really helps the team dynamic.”

Hedges and other co-captains Valerie Abushevich and Grace Tabet provide the leadership necessary for success.
“Our captains are doing a great job. They go out of their way to help the team and are supportive and encouraging,” junior Sophia Demopoulos said.

The team lost last year’s star player and captain Anastasia Goncharova, as she will attend UC Santa Barbara to continue her tennis career.

Goncharova was a game-changing player, but Anderson believes seniors Margot Connor and Hedges, along with junior Demopoulos and a full squad behind them, who contribute heavily, can live up to the standard that Goncharova has set.

“Of course the loss of Anastasia (Goncharova) was tough,” Anderson said. “But the girls are more ready than ever now to step up and compete.”