After several key seniors graduated this year, the lack of experience could prove to be a big challenge for the varsity girls’ tennis team, which kicks off its season next Tuesday. 

Last year marked the first time in nearly a decade that the team did not take home at least a share of the Mission League title.  Head Coach Chris Simpson said that injuries played a substantial role in the team’s failure to win the Mission League.

“We are disappointed about losing to Chaminade, and also losing our first Mission League title in nine years,” Simpson said.  “Injuries hurt us a lot and the competition was very tough.  Hopefully we can learn from last season.”

Simpson also said that the team will not go into the season as an early favorite, in part because of a lack of varsity experience on the team.

“(Division one) is very competitive, and the level of play will be very high,” he said.  “The basic goal is to have everyone improve and build for seasons ahead.”

Returning varsity player Nicole Hung ’10 said that winning the Mission League is both an important and realistic challenge.

“I definitely want to regain the Mission League Title,” Hung said.  “It will be difficult, but it is doable.  We have a lot of talented seniors and lowerclassmen who are talented and ready to step up.”

Ally Kalt ’09 also said that her number one goal for the upcoming season is to win back Mission League. Kalt added that she was excited to meet her new teammates, and to be a senior on the team.

Caroline Richman ’09, who was the number one singles player on last year’s team, said she has high goals for the upcoming season.

“As a team, we always strive to do our best, and hope to win league championships,” Richman said. “I think the team could improve by each player maintaining a positive attitude on the court regardless of the score.”

Tryouts have yet to take place. Simpson will pick his squad in the opening weeks of school.