The girls varsity tennis season has come to a successful close, with the team tying for second place in league and making their way to the quarter finals of CIF. With a record of five wins, two losses, and one tie in league, the team accomplished several wins this season. 

Co Captains on the team, Amanda Reeves and Kira Burke, have been involved in the tennis program for four years. Both players acknowledge that this season was very different from previous years, especially when it came to the team’s dynamic and dedication. 

“Overall, I think we exceeded our expectations of how we thought the season was going to go. We went into it knowing that our opponents were tough and it’s a very competitive division, but I think we rose to the occasion and really made a showing for ourselves and our program,” said Reeves. 

Reeves and Burke credit the team’s success this season to the team’s hard work and family dynamic.

The team worked hard this year to ensure their success in league. Practices were held each week on Monday and Wednesday, with matches taking place on Tuesday and Thursday. 

To establish trust and close relationships among the team, several team bonding activities took place. 

“After home games, we would all go to In-N-Out together and sit around tables and just eat food and hang out. We were always dying laughing, it was a great team bonding experience,” said Reeves. 

On and off the court, the team developed a strong family dynamic that helped them find success. 

“We definitely had that family dynamic and this year was definitely the year we all came together. We all got so close, so it’s sad to have to leave that behind. Everyone had a job on this team, they all played a part, and it wouldn’t be the team it is without anyone,” said Burke. 

“Over the four years that I have been in the program, this year I’ve definitely felt the closest to everyone and I think that really shows on and off the court. We were able to establish those dynamics that were really successful on the court, which we can thank Dileo for,” said Reeves. 

Dileo also played a big role in the team’s accomplishments this season. Being in the program for four years, Reeves and Burke mention that Dileo was not only a great coach, but a great role model for the team. 

“As much as Dileo jokes around with us, he really does care. He sets a really good example for us and did a really good job at pairing us up this year. He had a game plan and he stuck with it. There were times I didn’t really trust his logic, but he really did come through and totally contributed to our wins, and I don’t think we would have succeeded the way we did without him,” said Reeves. 

“Honestly, he’s taught us everything. Not even just tennis, even social situations and was always there if we needed to talk to him,” said Burke. 

The team’s last game that kicked them out of CIF was against Fountain Valley. This game was especially emotional for the senior players, as it was their last high school tennis game and final time getting to play with their fellow teammates. 

“I was so emotional after because I think it really hit me that it was my last time ever playing competitive tennis, especially because I’m not playing in college. And our team just got so close this year that we became a family and I think we really took in the freshman and established a sisterly bond with them. I’ve been a part of this for four years now, so to have those four years of time and dedication just be gone in one set was heartbreaking,” said Reeves. 

While the senior players are sad about leaving their underclassmen teammates behind, they are excited to see what the team will accomplish in future years. Reeves and Burke mention that if they could give any advice to their teammates, they would tell them to enjoy each and every moment they have with their team, as high school goes by fast. 

“I would tell them to have fun with it. It’s high school tennis, it’s not the biggest thing in the world. Just have fun. This is where you meet your friends for life and your family,” said Burke. 

“These are memories that are going to last a lifetime. And these are character building moments that you need to take advantage of. Don’t shy away from the challenge, just take it head on,” said Reeves.