Boys tennis team defeats Molalla

The return of an ace player sidelined by illness combined with strong individual performances to give the Outlaws tennis team a resounding victory over league rival Molalla.

The Sisters boys tennis team finished up league play with a 7-1 victory over the Indians on Thursday, May 4.

The brightest spot in the closing match was having Jeff Minke back on the team.

“Jeff has been out all season due to illness and was back for the first time tonight,” said Coach Boyd Stuwe.

Evan Sims and Minke played at the No. 1 doubles spot and defeated Ivan Martinez and Daniel Ellis 6-4, 6-2.

The No. 2 duo of Riley Newport and Shyama Ellis defeated Nick Jackson and Austin Baker 7-5, 6-3.

Nick Anthony and Sam Fullhart (No. 4 doubles) won in three sets, 6-7, 6-3 and 6-2 over Daniel Luna and Nick Clifford. Anthony and Fullhart lost the tiebreaker in the first set and came back to easily win the next two sets.

Jordan Wellman, who normally plays at the No. 3 singles position, moved and played at No. 1. Wellman got a big win over Lucas Carneiro with scores of 6-2, 6-3.

“It was a great win,” said Stuwe. “Carmeiro is a tough competitor and the last time we played Molalla he (Carneiro) took Evan (Sims) to three sets.”

Jared Whent (No. 2 singles) had a decisive 6-0, 6-2 win over Daniel Heyerly.

Charlie Philips, who normally switches with Will Newport at the No. 4 singles position, moved up and played at the No. 3 singles spot. Philips defeated Jorge Bravo 6-0, 6-1.

“Charlie played the match of his life,” said Stuwe. “He played the smartest, most solid and consistent tennis he’s played all year.”

Will Newport (No. 4) earned a 6-3, 6-1 victory over Thomas Bever.

The win over Molalla wrapped up league play for the Outlaws and the team finished with a 7-3 record overall.

“This is such a strong team,” said Coach Boyd Stuwe. “For a first year program this is just a tremendous team. Early in the season I was hoping for a .500 finish (winning half the matches) and the kids have far exceeded my expectations. All of the boys are really peaking for Districts.”