Tennis takes aim for State

The Yuba College men and women tennis teams have their hopes set on several single players and possibly a doubles team qualifying for the State meet which will be held at the College of Desert on May 7-8. Based on the women’s successful matches so far in the season, these expectations are very reasonable.

From their very first home game against Butte College, the Yuba women have taken control over the tennis courts and have defeated various college teams that have come to play against them. No. 1 returning player Becky Klein has helped lead the 49ers to these victories with her powerful serves and returns, as well as precise backhand hits.

In her latest matches against Consumnes College and Modesto College, she had solid wins 6-0, 6-3 and 6-3, 6-0. Klein has also doubled up with teammate Mary Lawrie to become the 49ers No.1 doubles team; the two are almost unbeatable so far.

“Becky is a very talented (tennis) player,” Coach Josh Prager said. “She is the best on the team and has a good chance of ranking high at the state tournament.”

Klein agrees with her coach. “I have definitely improved since last year,” she said. “I am really confident that I’ll make State, since I made it last year.”

No. 3 player Jennie Miracle and No.4 player Holly Bowman have also taken a stand against the competition. Miracle surpassed both her Consumnes and Modesto rivals 6-4, 6-2; Bowman won her matches with 6-2, 6-1 and 6-1, 6-2. Both girls have paired up to form Yuba’s No. 2 doubles team.

“My season has started off really well,” said Miracle. “This is my last year, and I hope to do well for the team.”

Although the men’s team hasn’t been as triumphant as the women, they are making good progress in their playing.

“Our team is full of new guys,” said Prager, “and they are constantly improving.”

However, No.1 returning player Matt Rodrigues has a high chance of making the State meet as well. Rodrigues’ playing is getting stronger with every match, and his experience from last year will give him an advantage. Coach Prager feels that he is in a good position for the rest of the season.

“I think Matt will definitely qualify for States,” said Prager.

The rest of the 49ers are newcomers to the team. The team’s roster includes Nathan Redman, No. 2; Ge Lau, No. 3; Chai Her, No. 4; Chris Eytcheson, No. 5; and Tony Lee, No. 6.

Coach Prager has been pleased with the performances of his team; he’s especially impressed with Chai Her who, after taking two years off from playing tennis, is quickly getting back into the game.

Overall, the rest of the season looks promising for the Yuba College tennis teams. With the goal of State in the players’ minds, we can expect more outstanding performances from the 49ers.