Girls tennis takes second at Madras

The girls tennis team finished second at the Madras Invitational Tournament on Saturday, April 17. Crook County was the tournament champ at 142, and Sisters was runner-up with 95. Madras placed third at 87, and Burns was just one point back at 86 for a fourth-place finish.

Sisters' No. 1 singles (Becky Thomas) and No. 2 singles (Maddie Greene) players both took third place overall.

Thomas defeated Stephanie Stovall of Madras 6-2, 6-0 in her final match of the day and finished with a total of 23 games won for third place.

"Becky played a strategic game," said Coach Marti Dale. "She moved her opponent and set up the play for a killer shot."

Greene did not win any matches in the tournament, but her excellent cross-court baseline shots helped her win 21 games for third place. Greene made numerous finishes with a great short drop shot.

Elise Herron and Jen Houk (No. 1 doubles) won 26 games to take second place and brought home a trophy for their efforts. Herron and Houk had very strong serves throughout the day, and often their serves resulted in an ace. The duo beat Rebecca Gibbon and Michelle Ebar 7-5, 6-1 in their last match of the day.

"Elise and Jen drove the ball hard and into the back of the court," said Dale. "They were really good at the net and weren't afraid or timid. They finished by putting the ball away at the net."

Olivia Miller and Kristina Sparling (No. 2 doubles) won 25 games for a second-place finish. Miller and Sparling had consistent serves throughout the day and very few double faults. Their lob game was right on and helped them notch wins in many games.

Stephanie Garcia of Madras and Chloe Stein of Sisters (both alternates) combined to play as Burns' No. 2 doubles team in the final match against Miller and Sparling. Miller and Sparling won the match 4-6, 6-4, and 10-8 in the tiebreaker.

"Chloe plays singles, so she really had to adapt for doubles play. It was a little odd to have her play against her teammates. But I was so pleased with her willingness and attitude, and she had fun and had a great day," said Dale.

Overall, Dale was pleased with her entire team, and their excellent performances.

"The girls improved throughout the day and learned a lot in competition play. They all stepped up, had fun and represented Sisters well. They definitely raised the bar today."

The Lady Outlaws will play at home at Black Butte Ranch against Madras Thursday, April 22. Friday, April 23 Sisters will host Burns.