The J. Taylor Finley Middle School girls’ tennis team maintained the program’s traditional competitiveness this fall, compiling a 5-5 mark and showcasing the best young players in the district.
Eighth grader Ella Palatnek played No. 1 singles, squaring off against the slickest opponents on the schedule. “Ella played extremely tough competition:” Finley head coach Eric Triolo said. “She’s a very skilled player who is going to be a great asset to the high school team.”
The Finley girls' tennis team was competitive this fall. (Darin Reed photo.)
Eighth grader Grace Kline was valuable in No. 2 singles. “Grace is a very good athlete who just started playing tennis this year,” Triolo said. “She has so much potential. I can’t wait to see her play in high school.”
Eighth grader Kate Gordon sparkled in the No. 3 singles position, finishing with a 6-4 record. “Kate is a very consistent player who can do it all,” Triolo said. “She has a great attitude and will only get better on the court.”
Eighth graders Leighton Evans and Caroline Mitek teamed up for a 9-1 record in No. 3 doubles. “They are a dynamic duo,” Triolo said. “I was so happy with how much they improved throughout the season.”
All things considered, the season went well. “The attitude of the team was fantastic,” Triolo said. “It was a pleasure to coach. It was a very hardworking team.”
Looking ahead to next year, Triolo expects to see many new faces. “The team will be very young,” he said. “I’m hoping for more incoming eighth graders to tryout. Violet Palacios will be a big part of the team next year.”