Published May 22, 2019
WESTON — In sports, the only way to get better is to practice against the best of the best.
Last Saturday, the Wakefield High boys’ tennis singles players went up against the top players in Massachusetts at the 2019 MIAA Boys’ North Individual Tennis Tournament located in Weston.
Noah Greif drew a tough draw, matching up against the 8th seed in the tournament and 14th ranked player in Massachusetts in Phoenix Tamaoki from Cambridge. Greif knew going into the match it was going to be a difficult one, but that didn’t phase him at all, considering the level of players he faces at his first singles position. The junior captain found himself down 4-1 quickly but fought back to make it 4-3. Tamaoki elevated his level of play, dictating the rallies with his powerful forehand, to win the next eight games. The final score was 6-3, 6-0.
THE WARRIORS had a great experience at State Individuals in Weston last Saturday. Pictured from left to right is Noah Greif, Jack Palmer, head coach Cheryl Connors and Lucas Smith. (Courtesy Photo)
“He was an amazing player, but I was able to stay in the rallies the entire match. It was a great learning experience, so hopefully, I can keep improving for the rest of the season,” said Greif.
Like Greif, Jack Palmer also faced a ranked player in Joe Maffa from Acton-Boxborough. Maffa was the sixth seed in the tournament and is ranked 22nd in the state. Palmer fell 6-0, 6-0, as he wasn’t able to find his rhythm, along with his opponent having a dominant serve.
Lucas Smith had an impressive run in the tournament, as he was able to get by his first round opponent with ease. Smith took down Nicholas Park 6-0, 6-2 by targeting his opponent’s backhand and remaining composed under the pressure. The junior had to wait over two hours for his next match, where he faced Lincoln Sudbury’s Drew Teitelbaum, the 15th ranked player in the state. Smith lost 6-0, 6-0, as his opponent set up rallies excellently while remaining consistent.
“Individuals was a great experience. I thought my serve helped me win my first match against Bishop Fenwick. My second opponent was the best kid I have ever played, so it was a great learning experience playing against him,” said Smith.
Greif, Palmer and Smith will all look to build on this experience to help lead the Warriors to a team MIAA State Tournament berth, as they sit only three wins away after beating Watertown last Wednesday.
