Boys tennis returns five

The Outlaws boys tennis team returns five experienced players who will anchor the squad this season. The team feels they have what it takes to be competitive in league.

Ben Fullhart, Colby Gilmore, Sam Quinn and Alex Cristiano return for their final season as Outlaws. Also back for another season is junior Luke Gnos.

Fullhart is in his fourth season on the varsity team and will once again play at the No. 1 singles position. Fullhart earned a fourth-place finish at districts last year, moved on to play in the state finals and won two rounds in the consolation bracket.

"Ben has an improved serve and a more powerful backhand, which could be just what he needs to get back to state," said Coach Garth Tosello.

Gilmore, a strong contender in doubles, will most likely play in the No. 1 slot. Colby, along with graduated partner Sean Tosello, won two rounds at district last year.

"Colby has the game to make it to state and with the right partner most likely will," said Tosello.

Quinn will be back on the court at doubles and will play at the No. 2 spot. Tosello told The Nugget that Quinn's aggressive net play and forehand makes him a threat to go more than just a few rounds at district.

Cristiano also returns to the doubles arena. Alex has improved his play and will probably play at the No. 2 doubles spot.

Rounding out the returning players will be Luke Gnos, who made the semi-finals in consolation last season. Gnos will play at either the No. 2 or No. 3 singles position.

"This year will give Luke the opportunity to have a good showing at districts to set himself up next year for a run at state," said Tosello. "He's improved his ground strokes and is more comfortable at the net."

Seniors Austin Williams and JT Harris joined the team this year. Williams has played tennis before, and according to Tosello will make a quick impact on the team. Austin will play at the No. 3 or 4 singles spot or at No. 1 doubles. Tosello noted that although Harris is a relatively new player to the game he has a desire to improve quickly.

Freshman Paul Fullhart (Ben's brother) will round out the varsity squad.

"Paul will bring a big impact to the team," stated Tosello. "He's already playing at a No. 2 or No. 3 singles level or a No. 1 doubles level. Paul will use his strong forehand and all-court game to surprise many players this year."

Tosello commented on his team and the upcoming season.

"Our goal is always to win districts as a team, but second place would be an improvement over last year. Better yet would be that every player would win at least one match at districts. We don't have many returning players, but the group we do have will allow us to be competitive in most of our matches. The continuity of the team will remain intact due to the group of players who are returning. Our new players are a very enthusiastic group of athletic talent, which will add depth to our team."

The Outlaws were to swing into action at home on March 15 against Redmond, and on Thursday will play at Bend.