The girl's AA varsity tennis team is coming off its 2nd league Championship and first State Championship title where they finished the season undefeated at 9-0. They have high expectations for this short season; Head Coach Carole Quinn expects to defend their league championship and state titles. The players will not be taking anything for granted this season, playing their best every time they step onto the court.

There are 10 returning seniors leading this undefeated team; Marley Anna, Rachel Fruchter, Siena Hanko, Anabella Licata, Sofia Licata, Julia Maiorino, Sophia Maiorino, Brianne McNulty, Kellie Rall, and Lauren Schumacher. “We have 3 incredibly strong singles players this year. I expect all 3 will have winning records. That adds to our extremely deep doubles teams, and should deliver the school another league championship” said Coach Quinn.

The singles players have big shoes to fill following the success of last year’s singles players like returning senior Anabella Licata who finished the season 9-0 in match play and 3 sets of double partners who went undefeated.   

Senior Sofia Licata also commented with her own expectations for the team, “This season I believe we have a very talented and strong team in singles and doubles. As defending State and League Champions, I believe we can do it again with all the hard work we are putting in every practice and game.” Senior Sophia Mairorino adds that last year “felt like a family.” 

Family is important during this time, Coronavirus has had an impact on the game and team, Licata says, “that the team’s morale is very high because everyone realizes how lucky they are to be playing.” Gratefulness is a common theme throughout the team. They make sure to comply with the COVID rules, by wearing their masks and socially distancing. Maiorino says, “The team is mindful of being safe when we are off the courts, any misstep could result in the end of the season.” Tennis is a good sport during this time to be involved in since masks are not required to be worn during the match. 

Unfortunately spectators are not allowed at the matches, and that has created a slightly different environment but has fueled the team to win. “We will make the most of it and knowing what we have been through, will enjoy every minute we have on the court!” Licata said. There is a lot of uncertainty surrounding this fall season. 

Everyone has someone or something that keeps them motivated, for s. Licata that motivation comes from a quote, “Appreciate what you have, while you have it, or you’ll learn what it meant to you after you lose it.” By Frank  Sonnenberg. Plus having her twin sister Anabella has made her four years as a Friar even more special. Senior twins Sophia and Julia Mairorino can completely relate. Helen Keller said, “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.” 

The Friars play one of the CHSAA top teams St. Francis Prep on Oct. 19th at SFP and will be back at Terry Ferrell on Oct 21st to face Kellenberg.  Saint Anthony’s fans, look forward to seeing this AA varsity tennis team to have a great season.

Araceli Ponce is a sophomore at Saint Anthony’s High School, writing for her second year at Friar Scoreboard. She is also a member of Saint Anthony’s softball and track team. In the future, she plans to have a career in the field of sports or architecture