Boys tennis hopes to repeat as district champs

The Sisters High School boys tennis team has only been able to squeeze in two practices so far this season, but they are anxious to get league underway.

Six seasoned players return to the varsity squad including senior Luke Gnos and sophomores Devon Calvin, Evan Rickards, Paul Fullhart, Trevor Standon and Tyrell Gilmore. These six will make up the core of the 16-man team.

Gnos has been a solid singles player for the Outlaws and will play singles again this year.

"As he (Gnos) does every year, I expect him to give all he's got," stated Coach Garth Tosello. "He should get some good wins and bring some leadership to the team."

Calvin is also a returning singles player who improved quickly as a freshman last year.

"I expect more of the same from Devin this year," said Tosello. "He will be a strong singles player and will pull off some surprise wins. His strength is his consistent shot-making."

Rickards played doubles and some singles for the Outlaws last year. Tosello said that Evan is an aggressive doubles player and a speedy singles player. Rickards is expected to be a versatile player again this year.

Trevor Standen and Tyrell Gilmore are returning doubles players that should make big contributions to the Outlaws squad.

"Trevor showed good improvement and athleticism last year, and I would expect more of the same," said Tosello. "With a good partner he should turn in a strong showing this year. Tyrell's well-placed ground strokes and his consistent game will be an asset to our team this year."

Fullhart rounds out the returning players and looks to be the Outlaws' lead singles player. Paul had a good run at districts last year and is expected to do even better this season.

"Paul's solid ground strokes and smart tactics will keep him competitive all year," said Tosello.

Ten new players join the team: seniors Drew Jacobsen, Jared Kaping, Jake Miller, Robert Small and Tyler Baldessari; sophomores Greg Eagan and Nathan Kaping; and freshmen Ethan Stengel, Ryan Houston and Shawn Horton.

Tosello said, "The team could develop some depth with some fast improving players. Ryan Houston, while a new player to the team, is not a new player to the sport. He will be able to jump right in and contribute. I expect us to start a little slow this year but finish strong at districts."

The Outlaws will face Bend at home at Black Butte Ranch on Thursday, March 15.