Kelly O’Day
Sports editor
In a season filled with close matches, the Bluejay girls tennis team turned another one their way when they knocked off WVC opponent Wausau West by a 4-3 tally.
The Jays captured 3-of-4 singles matches and the #3 doubles match to take down the victory.
Grace Huftel (5-7, 6-1, 6-0), Michaela Raleigh (6-1, 6-1), Katie Nelson (6-3, 6-4) and Allison Winter-Reed/Morgan McAlllister (4-6, 6-2, 6-2) worked wins. Lea Beckman (7-5, 7-5) and Cate Murray/Katie Tomalak (3-6, 6-3, 6-3) were edged and Cassy Plachetka/Kayla Ament lost 6-2, 6-0.
“Grace had a great match,” MHS coach Janet Thompson said. “She has a very strong and accurate serve which can be quite a weapon for her. She definitely gets more aces than most high school players! After a tough loss in the first set she was able to regroup and come back strong, only losing one game after that.
“Michaela and Katie continue to roll along, undefeated in Valley conference play at 2 and 3 singles, respectively.
“It was very encouraging to get a win at doubles this week. Allison and Morgan had a strong performance which included good crosscourt shots and volleys that forced their opponents to make errors.“
The Bluejays have a 2-1 record in the Valley, but are actually ranked tied for last right now with Marshfield, because their match with the Tigers was rained out. West (1-4) and Everest (0-4) are just ahead of them with much worse records. Teams are awarded points for each match win in the standings.