The 2010 Lady Spartan Netters

The 2010 Lady Spartan Netters started off their season early this year, looking to build on last seasons play. Practice started on August 10th under direction of first year coach Sarah Schoenwaelder and assistant coach Dale Stafslien. Under the persistent eye of Schoenwaelder, Stafslien, and experienced seniors, Sparta hopes to compete with other teams in the Mississippi Valley Conference.

MVC play began with a trip to La Crosse Central, where number one singles Kala Lindley opened up with a win, however the girls were unable to pull off the team victory. “I think the caliber of our players has improved, but we still have a lot of work to do.” offered Lindley when asked if the team has improved since last season.

The Lady Netters have come up just short in MVC play against Onalaska, Aquinas, and Logan. However, the Lady Spartans have had their share of success in the season so far as well. A 4-3 victory over Viroqua got the Lady Netters started in the win column. Which was added to by decisive victories both at and hosting West Salem. “I want to work on keeping my opponent more off balance and make them work harder.” added Lindley.

Despite falling in the MVC the girls remain optimistic and continue to work hard. When asked if she thinks this season has been successful, Senior Alicia Winchel offered, “Yes, we have won more matches this season than in the past couple of years combined.”

Although the girls work hard to improve, having fun when playing and enjoying the game is just as important. Winchel had this to add when asked if playing tennis with the team is fun for her, “At times yes, other times no. We have a lot of fun as a team. Bus rides with the girls are the most fun, win or lose there is always a lot of energy and there is never a dull moment.” The girls definitely have a lot of energy on and off the court, as Winchel offers, “I love after winning an away game all of the excitement on the bus on the way home.”

The season isn’t over however, the strong senior leadership continues to help and guide the younger girls. When asked what advice she would pass on to future girls playing tennis, Lindley suggested, “Play each point one at a time and know its not over until its over. Also practice how you play.”

Coaching the girls isn’t easy, but most coaches would agree that having a great group of girls helps make their job easier and more enjoyable. “This is a great group of girls because we have outstanding senior leadership and they have worked hard to be a group. Having team dinners together and bonding on and off the court. “ adds Stafslien.

The girls season comes to a head on Monday September 27th as the team heads to the MVC conference tournament to determine where they will place in the MVC this season. Followed by a trip to Viroqua on September 30th.

After regular season play ends the girls still have probably the biggest challenge of the season ahead of them: the WIAA state tournament. “It’ll be tough, but Kala’s goal from the start of the season has been to go to state and I think all the girls can certainly be competitive if they play hard.” comments Stafslien. The girls are looking forward to state tournament play at sub-sectionals after number one singles Kala Lindley went to sectionals last year. After competing at that level of play Lindley offers “I think our team has a good chance, since our sub-sectionals are in Lodi.”

I think everyone is excited for these next few weeks as our girls come into some competitive and important games!