Blue Devil Tennis Players Capture All-League Honors

The Huntington varsity boys’ tennis team consisted exclusively of underclassmen this spring. It was the first time in decades that the Blue Devils didn’t have a single senior playing singles or doubles.

Coached by Jamie Fishlow, Huntington was led by three All-League players; sophomores Nicholas Plachta and Ryan Scanlon and junior Tyler Godin.

Fishlow spoke highly of the 13 players on the team. “They were all very positive about the sport and willing to improve their skills on the court,” he said. “They were very cohesive both on and off the court and stayed positive despite the team’s record. They were highly coachable. I enjoyed being around them every day.”

Scanlon and Plachta excelled in singles and doubles. “Ryan is a very skilled player who practiced and played hard against very strong competition,” Fishlow said. “Through more match play and hard work, I look for Ryan to compete at a higher level in the future. He’s very coachable and easy to instruct.”

Plachta also enjoyed a great year. “Nick is a good athlete who plays hard every point,” Fishlow said. “As Nick improves, he will also be able to top stronger opponents. I love having him on the team.”

Godin continues to improve. “Tyler’s attitude is great and he has a willingness to persevere through tough situations,” Fishlow said. “He can run all day on the court.”

The high school program lacked depth, but the players that were in the fold gave the team their best.

“Our best accomplishment was that the team was a strong, cohesive unit that worked very hard in what is considered to be a rebuilding year,” Fishlow said. “Attendance at all practice was 100 percent, with a work ethic that was unmatched. With literally 75 percent of the team without any varsity experience, the team worked on developing skills and aiming for the future. Despite our record, the team stayed positive at all times while working on daily individual goals. Each and every player has promised to work on their game and to return next year.”

Fishlow is looking to build the program. He is directing a Booster Club summer camp for younger players and is eagerly anticipating this year’s eighth graders coming up to the high school level.

“I am looking for all players to improve and with the numbers coming from Finley, there will be more competition for spots in the line-up,” Fishlow said. “I’m looking for all current players to work hard in the off-season to earn a spot in the varsity line-up.”