On Thursday, Sept. 18, the girls’ varsity tennis team beat the San Rafael High School team 5-2. Redwood won all three doubles matches and two out of four singles matches.
Senior captain Sienna Rouas enjoyed the positive atmosphere at the team match.
“Everyone seems to be in a good mood. Everyone played pretty well. We all get along, it’s really nice,” Rouas said.
Junior Lila Nahrgang didn’t play, but came to support and cheer on her teammates.
“I think people are here to have fun. We’re here to win also, obviously. A big part of our team dynamic is that even if you’re not playing, you come to support the people who are. And that’s really what ties the team together,” Nahrgang said.
Coach Tracey Porter is in her third season as coach of the girls’ varsity tennis team.
“San Rafael has actually improved a lot over the last two years as a team. But Redwood is Redwood. We have a super solid team,” Porter said.
A big part of our team dynamic is that even if you’re not playing, you come to support the people who are. And that’s really what ties the team together
Porter’s favorite part of being a coach is watching the girls evolve throughout the season.
“[The girls] are fun and smart and silly and goofy and delightful. It’s so much fun watching them, and they are amazing athletes…They’re a really sweet group of kids,” Porter said.
Last year, eleven seniors graduated, so nine new players joined this season.
“[The new players] are all so enthusiastic and wide eyed and excited…they’re all pumped to be on the team…The vibe is kind of lighter and it’s just fun,” Porter said.
Regardless of how young the team is, Nahrgang is optimistic for the team’s season and outcome.
“We lost a lot of great players last year, but I think everyone has really put their best foot forward, and I think we’re gonna go far this year, so I’m excited,” Nahrgang said.
Rouas noticed a difference in dynamics due to the many younger players who joined the team.
“We have a lot of underclassmen, so the dynamics are definitely different. [There are] more teaching moments and things like that. But in all, it’s really fun and it’s good to see them grow,” Rouas said.
Rouas also likes taking on a leadership role on the team.
“I enjoy just feeling like someone that people can talk to or go to if they need help with someone or something…And I also just really like getting to lead warm-ups and exercises and having an input on how practices look,” Rouas said.
Porter noticed how close the team is, their energy and their community.
“I feel like they’re like a little sisterhood,” Porter said.
Next week, Redwood plays Marin Catholic on Monday, Sept. 22, and San Marin on Thursday, Sept 25.
“Those are going to be some good matches. Come watch,” Porter said.
