TINA L. SCOTT
EDITOR
In their first Conference match of the season, the Merrill Girls Varsity Tennis Team faced off against the Wausau East Girls on Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024, at Wausau East High School. In a series of tough match-ups, the Merrill Girls gave it their all, but it was a struggle and Wausau East ultimately took the wins across the board.
“The players battled not only against their opponents, but also against difficult weather conditions, as strong winds played a significant role in our matches,” said Elizabeth Thiel, Merrill Girls Varsity Tennis Team Head Coach. “The challenging wind conditions made the matches even tougher and even though the results weren’t in our favor, I’m incredibly proud of how every player fought hard.”
“Unfortunately, the day was marred by an injury to Kaytlyn Hulke, our number 4 singles player,” she said. “Hulke sustained an injury during her match, which required her to leave the court and forfeit the remainder of her match.”
“Notable performances came from our number 1 and number 3 doubles teams, who engaged in fiercely competitive matches,” Thiel said. “Their perseverance and strategic play were impressive, showcasing their skill and determination despite the adverse conditions.”
“The match at Wausau East provided valuable lessons,” she said. “As we look ahead, we are focused on using this experience to refine our strategies and improve our performance.”
The Girls will travel to play Stevens Point on Thursday, Sept. 12, at 4 p.m. “With renewed determination and a commitment to building on our experiences, the players are ready to face the upcoming challenges,” Thiel said. “For now, we are regrouping and supporting one another, confident that our hard work and perseverance will lead to future success.”
Match Scores
1 Singles – Merrill’s Emily Frahm vs. Wausau East Abbey Olson, 0-6 0-6, Wausau East win
2 Singles – Merrill’s Sarah Rell vs. Talia Schlindwein, 0-6 0-6, Wausau East win
3 Singles – Merrill’s Claire Hintz vs. Wausau East Elizabeth Chang, 0-6 0-6, Wausau East win
4 Singles – Merrill’s Kaytlyn Hulke vs. Wausau East Salame Ujarmeli, Kaytlyn got injured, Wausau East win
1 Doubles – Merrill’s Jenna Malluege/Korina Kraegenbrink vs. Wausau East Megan Schwartz/Daeshia Chang, 4-6 2-6, Wausau East win
2 Doubles – Merrill’s Grace Hoock/Johanna Dahlke vs. Wausau East Naomi Potter/Scout Sweeney, 0-6 1-6, Wausau East win
3 Doubles – Merrill’s Parker Wagenaar/Rose Dornbrack vs. Wausau East Isabella Vue/Marley Krambs, 2-6 2-6, Wausau East win
