Published in the April 13, 2017 edition
Junior Brett Allan is among the returning tennis players who could potentially help lead the NRHS team to a great season. (Transcript file photo)
By DAN NUNN
NORTH READING — After two consecutive tough losing seasons with inexperienced teams, the 2017 Hornets boys’ tennis team returns a veteran roster that looks ready to improve.
“I have been impressed with all of our returning players,” said head coach Mark Bisognano. “Each and every returning player has come back improved. With this amount of talent we will definitely expect better play from these players.”
The lineup is still up in the air, but there is plenty of talent to choose from. The competition for the three singles spots is fierce with senior captain Joe Fitzgerald, junior captain Brett Allan and sophomores Ryan Landers, Seth Hemley and Michael Tyrell all in the mix.
Whichever players don’t make it into the singles lineup will definitely see plenty of time somewhere at first or second doubles, Bisognano said. Seniors Aidan O’Connor, Andrew Campagna and sophomore Trevor Wilson will be in the running for playing time along with newcomers James Moda (senior), Tyler Lee (junior), and freshmen Mateo Florez and Michelangelo Tsarparlis at singles and doubles as well.
When asked about the state of the tennis program, Bisognano was not only looking forward to this season but the future as well. “I’m very happy with the state of the program. We have 22 players on the team and a good portion of those are in ninth and 10th grade. So, the future certainly looks bright and I think that the present looks pretty good too.”
The team’s season opener was played Wednesday afternoon (after press time) at home. Then the team has a break until April vacation when they will host the Hamilton-Wenham Generals on Friday, April 21 at 10 a.m. The Hornets will also host the Cape Ann League Open on Saturday, April 22 at 9 a.m.
