Staff writer
Grant Shewey leads a group of five returning letter winners on the Hillsboro High School boys’ tennis team.
Shewey was the sixth-place medalist at the state tournament in 2011. He ended his campaign with a 22-8 record.
Head coach Stuart Holmes praised Shewey’s game saying he is both technically sound with his shot-making ability and court positioning and a cutthroat competitor who hates to lose a single point.
“He’s determined to stay in a point; in a close match that makes a difference,” Holmes said. “Add that mentality to a really great game, and you have a successful player.”
With Shewey slated to take the No. 1 singles position for Hillsboro, Harry Faber is poised to step into the No. 2 singles spot. Faber played doubles last season and Holmes said the junior does not have much experience as a singles player.
Faber played doubles with Jarod Hamm last season.
What Faber does have is height, listed at 6-foot-1, and athleticism, both of which he showcased as a reserve for the Trojans’ basketball team.
Tyler Funk, Daniel Gray, and Jeff Pritchard will all vie for four doubles positions.
“All these guys have some good experience and have the potential to be competitive this year if they continue to improve all aspects of their game,” Holmes said.
Ty Carey and River Cecil are newcomers with the team. Cecil participated in cross-country and wrestling.
The Trojans first meet is March 29 at Conway Springs. Hillsboro hosts the Hillsboro Invitational April 5 and the Trojan Invitational April 17. Other crucial meets include the Hesston Invitational April 24, Central Kansas League meet April 30, and Regional Tournament May 4.