Cardinal Tennis recently had a very successful playoff run during their fall season advancing all the way to the regional semi-finals.

They finished district in second place, and went on and defeated Fort Worth Benbrook on Oct. 12 in the bi-district round, 10-0.

Next, they played Midlothian Heritage for the area round on Oct. 14 and won 10-6 to become area champs.

The next round of playoffs was the regional quarterfinals, which was held on Oct. 19 at Anna High School. The Cardinals defeated Whitesboro, 10-1, to move on to the regional semi-finals.

Unfortunately, the Cardinals’ playoff run came to an end when they faced off with Lindale on Oct. 21 in Arlington. To view the UIL 4A Team Tennis Playoff Bracket, click here.

Since the tennis teams practiced almost daily since August, they were well prepared for tournaments and matches. 

“The coaches hold practices every day and focus on drills we might be lacking in certain skills,” freshman Taylor Katz said. 

Although the tennis team has to work together daily, each player has to put forth his or her best effort in order to benefit the group. 

“Working as a team helps us have higher positivity because we’ve never gotten this far, and as an individual, it makes me want to work even hard for the better benefit of the team,” junior Osaze Osemwenkha said.

Although the Melissa Tennis Team did not win in the regional semifinals, they, however, have stayed motivated. 

“An open mindset and positivity from the team and getting support constantly [helps us continue to stay on track],” Katz said. 

Although Coach Brad Crawford is retiring this year, he is confident that his players will continue to play their best.

“They are such a great group!! I love how they worked at practice, their math play,” Coach Crawford said.

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Rozleyn Brown