The first matches started with singles’ play, the no. 2 match played by sophomore Phoebe Boeschen. Originally from Jefferson City, Boeschen played a crucial role in this victory, winning her match 6-0, 6-0. The Jay’s second-best player is left-handed, so Boeschen played with new strategic skill that clenched the first point for the Bruins.
“[The no. 2 player for Jefferson City] was a lefty,” Boeschen said, “so I didn’t hit it down the line as much as I usually do. I hit it more cross court to her backhand so she wouldn’t have as strong shots as her forehand.”
Knowing her opponents personally, Boeschen had to ignore their friendly relations and focus strictly on the match.
“When I go out on the court, I don’t think that I know the person,” Boeschen said, “I just think that it’s another opponent.”
Coach Ben Loeb also brought up new strategies in this match, mixing up the competitive line-up. Boeschen played doubles with Freshman Hannah Pohl, winning with a score of 6-1 and 6-2. Juniors Sophi Farid and Allison Baker played no. 1 doubles, and varsity singles player Tess Lovig played no. 1 junior varsity doubles.
Loeb and the girls’ tennis team thus continue the season with a record of 10-1. Their next match will be Friday, Sept. 14 at the Clayview Country Club in Kansas City, where they will compete in the varsity Liberty Tournament.
