Reigning league champs return plenty of talent
Published in the March 31, 2017 edition
SAM STALLINGS (left) and Caleb Zimmerman are two returning players for the 2016 league winner Red Raider tennis team. (file photo)
By JENNIFER GENTILE
MELROSE—After a three year run of reigning league champs, the Melrose High boys’ tennis team looks to be top contender again in the Middlesex League this spring. Last season, Melrose graduated one senior, their first singles player, and they return to the court a roster of talented athletes who are used to winning, and have their eye on title #4.
Melrose may have a target on their back this season but that’s something they will wear proudly.
Head coach Matt Williams has enjoyed tremendous success in the last few seasons (this is his 8th overall at MHS) with a record of 28-2 over ML Freedom in two years. This season he’s excited to get outside and prepare for their first match on Wednesday on the road at Belmont. According to the coach, what sets Melrose apart from the competition this season is the pure athleticism of his players. Most of his players are multi-sport athletes who compete in basketball, football, and swim, and Williams contends their speedy, strength and agility will set them apart.
“They may be the most athletic team in the division,” he says. “We have several players over six feet tall. They come into the season in terrific shape, and that gives them an advantage.”
That includes his captains Jack Mays, Sean Donovan and Sam Stallings who will lead Melrose this spring season. Expect Mays and Donovan to lead Melrose in singles play. At this point, anyone might take the top spot. “All of our players are so close in skill level, it could go either way.”
Returning players include Sean Prendergast, Caleb Zimmerman, Joe Connolly and Liam Singleton, all of whom excel in doubles play.
One returning player Williams excited about is junior Jason Jang, who competes in the sport year round and is considered, “a player to watch” by the coach, along with freshman Zac Ziabatis.
The team starts off competition against some tough ML large teams, Arlington and Belmont, but remain undaunted. Last season Melrose beat the Spy Ponders and competed well in a loss against Belmont.
One thing is for sure, the team is prepared to fight for another title. “This is something our seniors want. They want to be the team who won a title each season of their varsity careers. They’re ready. So we’re excited to get outside, start playing and take the challenge.”
Sounds like the mindset to another winning season.
