8th graders lead South to tennis perfection
Published 12:02 pm Tuesday, October 15, 2024
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The South Davie girls tennis team completed the 2024 season undefeated and captured the Tri-County Conference title.
South was led by eighth graders Clara Parsley, Kady Joyce, Amelia Elledge and Iris Marion.
As the No. 1 seed, Parsley finished with a 5-2 singles record and proved to be competitive in every match. She also provided leadership as team captain.
Joyce played No. 2 and had an outstanding year in singles and doubles with a combined record of 10-2.
At No. 3, Elledge finished with a singles record of 5-2, including a key win against Ellis.
Marion had an excellent year in singles at No. 4 with key wins against Ellis and Mooresville, finishing with a record of 6-1.
“Our eighth graders provided excellent leadership and competitiveness, particularly in tight matches with Mooresville and Ellis,” coach Andy Soots said. “These young ladies have made significant progress, and I am happy they were able to finish with a conference championship.”
Seventh graders Emma Grace Snow and Kylie Edwards had significant contributions. Snow completed a perfect season in singles and doubles (12-0), and once-beaten Edwards won over 90 percent of her matches.
“Emma Grace and Kylie gave our team tremendous depth at the five and six positions,” Soots said. “Both players committed to improving during the offseason, and it paid off this year. Both young ladies have bright futures.”
Stella Brock, Piper Crotts, Hallie Head, Kate Welborn and Alaina York also contributed to the team’s record and seized the moment when given the opportunity to play as a starter.
Newcomers Aubrey Reavis and Karmen Burgess-Walker experienced success playing exhibition matches.
“Players outside the starting six were outstanding teammates all season and worked hard during practice to increase their seeding and proved to be ready when given the opportunity,” Soots said. “I am excited about the future for these young ladies.”