Girls tennis aims for state qualification

RUSSELLVILLE — The girls tennis team is setting its sights on state qualification this season, facing tough competition in one of the state’s most competitive sections.

Coach Charlotte Dollar said the team’s top players have shown strong performance and leadership.

Senior Lily Cate Pace leads the team at the No. 1 singles spot, She also plays on the No. 1 doubles team. Josie Burcham, at No. 2 singles and also part of the top doubles pairing, has steadily improved from last year.

“The top seven players are the same as last year,” Dollar said. “We’re just trying to get them revved up and fired to fight for wins.”

Dollar noted the team members balance tennis with other commitments. Pace is also a cheerleader, a performer in the spring musical, and recently won Miss RHS. Ella Copeland, the team’s No. 6 player, participates in basketball and cheerleading, while Maria Gonzalez, the No. 5 player, was homecoming queen.

“They’re all busy, but they’re committed to the team,” Dollar said.

Despite the challenges of balancing multiple activities, Dollar praised her players’ dedication and focus.

“They’re awesome,” she said.