The high school girls’ tennis team kicked off a strong season this fall with five wins in their first six matches. This close-knit group of 24 student-athletes expects to go to the playoffs this year. 

They won matches against Cranston East, Woonsocket, and North Smithfield, and most recently, Cumberland. Even their one loss was one point away from being another win for the girls, with a score of 3-4 against Chariho. This loss was a notable improvement from last year’s 7-0 loss, demonstrating the team’s determination and skill. 

Head coach Lahoud has high expectations for his team as well. 

“On paper, we’re one of the top six strongest teams in the division,” head coach Brandon Lahoud said. “We’ll see what happens with, you know, staying healthy. [Avoiding] people not missing matches for being sick. Hopefully, we’ll compete well.”

Junior Anna Danis, who was named second-team all-division last year, and junior Tanvi Bobbil return as the top two singles players in the lineup, and are joined by last year’s all-division doubles team, Alyssa Lopes and Lorelei Archambault, who moved up to the singles slots.  

Everyone plays a crucial role in helping the team succeed. What sets the team apart is their teamwork and sense of connection. Varsity and JV teams support each other, practice together, and work on their team bonding. 

“I feel like we have a good group of girls, and I do feel like it has been more communicative,” junior Charlotte Kilsey said. “As JV and varsity, I feel like we’re talking more than last year, which is definitely good. So I hope that we can keep that energy up for the season.”

The girls have had a good season so far, but coach Lahoud does have some concerns as the season progresses. 

“I think the challenge is that our season is a bit brutal,” Lahoud said. “So, unlike other teams that have one game at the end of the week, we have a game every other day.” 

The Lions travel to Lincoln School on Thursday for their next match.