Tennis Teams Aiming To Improve

Following middle-of-the-pack finishes last year, Central Valley and University boys tennis teams are hoping for improvement.

The Bear boys started over last year and bring back eight players who challenged for 10 varsity spots at varying times on a sixth-place team.

University graduated seven seniors who were integral members of its seventh-place finisher.

Greater Spokane League competition begins April 9, although teams have participated in pre-season matches already.

Can Bears return to upper division?

After a year away from the top of the GSL, are the Bears ready to challenge again?

“Anything can happen,” said coach Patty Aunan. “It’s up to them.”

Central Valley brings back No. 1 singles player Chris Trefry and Brad Heaton, half of a doubles team that reached the district semifinals.

In addition, seniors Ben Abrams, Josh Johnson and Shane Sullivan are all district tournament veterans.

“They’ve all improved a ton,” said Aunan.

Other seniors are Dave Johnson, Scott Cook and Shaun Pintler. Juniors are Chris Arger and Greg Schlatter.

Sophomore newcomers are Sam Abrams, Matt Merrill, Bryce Boltjes and Lance Bastian.

“The pecking order is not established,” said Aunan. “It will be over the next couple of weeks.”

Trio heads Titan lineup

Five returners, including No. 1 singles player Ryan Spear, lead the way at University.

They’ll be joined by newcomers, including four sophomores, in hopes of improving last year’s 2-6 record.

“We don’t have kids who play tennis all year long,” said coach Dan Obenchain, “but they’ll be competitive.”

Seniors Nick Jarosch and John Kaiser, sophomores Bryce Brewer and Scott Klep all had district tournament experience last year.

Nick Diaz, a first-year junior, will be among the Titans’ top four or five. Others vying for varsity berths are seniors James Stokoe, Steve McFarland and Jeff Johnson and sophomores Brandon Curryer, Jarred McDaniel and George Doi, currently recovering from illness.

“This is a scrappier bunch this year and they’re practicing harder, too,” said Obenchain.

, DataTimes