Second-year coach has high hopes for boys tennis

RUSSELLVILLE — The boys tennis team enters the season with high expectations, guided by second-year head coach Lee-Taylor Bishop.

Bishop said the team has shown the focus and motivation needed to compete at a high level.

“I have a lot of talent on this team, and a lot of boys who want to work really hard. I’m expecting us to have a good season,” she said.

The team’s seniors are setting the tone. Bishop highlighted David Miguel Tomas and Josue Miguel Tomas at the top singles positions, as well as Victor Vargas, who has worked hard to earn a spot in the lineup.

“I am expecting some really good things from him,” Bishop said of Vargas.

Bishop, who previously coached girls tennis, said leading the boys team has been rewarding.

“They have welcomed me, and they are just excited to learn and get better. That make it a really fun program to be a part of,” she said.

Beyond skills on the court, Bishop said the players are learning valuable lessons such as hard work and discipline.

“That is going to carry them throughout life, no matter what circumstance they’re in,” she said.