The Westminster varsity girls’ tennis team broke new grounds last Thursday with an impressive win in the district championship over Visitation Academy.  Visitation, the four-time defending state champion, has been crushing Westminster’s chances to win state for many years, but the girls were able to end Visitation’s hopes for a fifth straight title with a 5-3 victory.

“After being crushed by them three years in a row in team districts, it was extremely fulfilling to come out on top,” said Annie Schlafly, senior and co-captain.

While the varsity girls’ team has always possessed some of the best tennis players in the state, it was the depth of this year’s team that brought Westminster the victory.

“We wouldn’t have been able to make it without the depth of our team.  All top 6 singles players are extremely strong and our 3 doubles teams work well together,” said Schlafly.

While the team is definitely looking forward to some tough matchups, the girls hope to accomplish more than just a state championship this year.

“Going forward, we hope to… go to state… Regardless of whether or not we make it, I hope we can grow closer as a team and truly enjoy ourselves,” said Schlafly.

The girls feel a sense of confidence going forward thanks to their new coach. Adam Barbee received the head coaching job after Nathan Talley moved to California.  This year he has been able to advise his players on their opponents and control the play of his own team from the sideline.

“Coach Barbee has been a great coach.  He is so encouraging and knows how to keep us calm in pressure situations,” said Anna Bergman, senior and co-captain.

Many new and beneficial changes have taken place this year for girls’ tennis.  They have a great new coach and they have ended their losing streak to Visitation.  The future looks bright and a tradition of winning is sure to come with these new improvements.