Tennis opens today

The Albany Lions tennis program has been well represented at the Class 2A state tournament the last two years.

Several players with state experience will attempt to keep the streak going.

Albany opens its 2024 schedule Thursday, Feb. 22 (today) at the Hawley Invitational at Abilene’s RosePark.Albanytennis coach M.J. Reneau said 14 players will take the court in five draws.

Ayearago,Albanyadvanced six of 10 district entries to regional with four moving on to state.

Among the returning players available this season are two-time state qualifiers Luke Marshall and Sidney Russell, who advanced in boys singles and girls singles,respectively.Also back is senior Jaci Chapman, who qualified in girls doubles last year, but missed competing at state because of health issues.Herstatereplacement, junior Abi Hale, also returns after advancing to the final four in mixed doubles with her twin brother Jake at the regional tournament thepasttwoyears.Cason Fairchildwenttostatein boys doubles.

Between today and the District 10-2A Tournament on April 22-23, the lineup could see extensive changes.

“Some could be with different partners,” Reneau said. “I’m putting a couple in positions they haven’t played before – some have only played doubles, and I’m throwing them into singles. We’re just using this first week to get on the court and see where we are.”

Reneau said several lineup spots could change.

“Luke and Sidney have talked about not playing singles, but I think they’ll wind up in singles,” she said. “Abi and Jake Hale are definitely going to play mixed doubles. Jaci said she wants to play with Robyn Trail.”

Healthissueswillalso be a factor.

“We’ve talked about teaming Mimi Ivy and Caroline Chapman, but they’re both hurt right now,” Reneau said. “We’ve got a lot of question marks.”

Albany will play up to eighttournamentsbefore district, including hosting an event on April 2.

“We’re still looking for a couple of events in April,” Reneau said.