Marshall takes silver at state
By Sam Waller
For the third year in a row, Albany had a finalist at the Class 2A state tennis tournament as Luke Marshal advanced in boys singles.
Marshall played Mason Hatfield of Mason for the championship Wednesday, April 26 at Blossom Tennis Center in San Antonio, losing 4-6, 0-6.
A year ago, Marshall’s title bid was derailed by severe cramping, which forced him to retire in the semifinals while leading.
“Luke looked strong this year, though,” Albany coach M.J. Reneau said. “Trainers did several things to prevent any problems. He had no issues the first day.”
On Tuesday, April 25, Marshall advanced through the bracket with relative ease. The junior defeated Shane Pugh of Sterling City 6-2, 6-1 in the first round, then blanked Quince Lawler of Mason 6-0, 6-0 in the semifinals.
“Luke played solid on Tuesday. “He tried to make the most of his time out there so his legs didn’t hurt, and there were no cramps. He was in and out quickly.”
Marshall was the only one of four Albany entries to survive the first round.
In boys doubles, Cason Fairchild and London Fuentes lost to defending state champions Robert Aguero and Jack Gillespie of Mason 6-3, 6-3.
“It was a great effort by Cason and London,” Reneau said. “They won some games off the defending champs.”
In girls singles, Sidney Russell lost to Carolina Williams of Port Aransas 6-0, 6-0. Russell was at state for the second year in a row.
“Sidney ran into a girl who will most likely be state champion in what wasn’t a very good draw,” Reneau said. “We hope to get her back there next year.”
In girls doubles, Ella Webb and Abi Hale lost to Mariana DelaFuente and Montse DelaFuente of Sonora 6-4, 6-1. Hale was a last-minute replacement for Jaci Chapman, who underwent an emergency appendectomy over the weekend. Hale finished fourth in mixed doubles at the regional tournament with her brother, Jake.
“I think in their situation, Ella and Abi did the best they could,” Reneau said. “Jaci got sick on Friday, and Abi was on her way to a club volleyball tournament. Ella and Abi were able to practice together Sunday night.”
