YHS BOYS TENNIS
The 2016 York Wildcats showing their Class B South Regional Runner-up plaque. A close 3-2 loss ended the comeback season.
Congratulations to Camden Hills ~~ Class B State Champs
They defeated Cape Elizabeth 3-2 on Saturday
Congratulations goes out to Freeport
Class B South Sportsmanship Winners!
Reminder to players that our end of the season dinner/awards will be Monday, June 13 at 6:00 pm at Buffalo Wild Wings
Parents are welcome to join us!
Parents are welcome to join us!
Check out these links for stories and photos of the Class B South Regional Final
Portland Press Herald Article
www.pressherald.com/2016/06/09/boys-tennis-cape-elizabeth-thornton-and-waynflete-advance/
Portsmouth Herald Article
www.seacoastonline.com/sports/20160609/underdog-wildcats-fall-short-in-regional-finals
Photos by Trevor Hughes
https://www.flickr.com/groups/3008820@N22/pool/page1
Portland Press Herald Article
www.pressherald.com/2016/06/09/boys-tennis-cape-elizabeth-thornton-and-waynflete-advance/
Portsmouth Herald Article
www.seacoastonline.com/sports/20160609/underdog-wildcats-fall-short-in-regional-finals
Photos by Trevor Hughes
https://www.flickr.com/groups/3008820@N22/pool/page1
York Boys Tennis Gives Capers a Real Run
Drop a Heartbreaker 3-2
Drop a Heartbreaker 3-2
Which way would the pendulum swing? Would it go the way of the 3-time defending Class B Champion Cape Elizabeth? Or would it go the way of upset minded York and give the 'Cats their first opportunity to play for a state championship since 2000?
The ball would eventually drop while the pendulum hung around the higher seeds side of the court and the Capers would breathe the sigh of relief as they would get a chance to roll to their fourth title in a row. The Wildcats would proudly collect their well-earned hardware and quietly head home with a new vat filled with experience for the young squad.
On a blustery early afternoon at the Bates College tennis complex, both boys and girls teams from York and Cape Elizabeth squared off at the same time to decide who would represent the South at Saturday's State Championship matches (to be held down the street at Lewiston High School). With four courts to work with, the title match would see the double teams and numbers two and three singles taking to the courts first. The number one singles players would see their first action on the first available court.
Across the four courts, York took early leads 1-0. The number two doubles team of Thomas Donnelly and Ben Duffy saw their scorecards flip their way early and often. Their 6-1 first set surprised everyone and surely gave the Wildcats a boost in confidence along the four courts.
A quick first set by Dinon Hughes at #2 singles followed. However, the cards weren't flipped in York's favor as he dropped the set 3-6. On court 7, the #1 doubles team of Jack Welch and Chris D'Aquila, traded games in the first until it was 4-5. The Capers took the next game to close out the set 6-4. James Peter, on the next court over, found his action taking a lot longer. He took his defensive tactics and upped them a notch against a player who hadn't lost all year. Peter finally got the first set at 6-3 while the other matches were well into their second sets.
One court 5, Dinon would turn things around quickly in the second set, showing 6-0 on the cards before flipping his set marker to 1. More hope sprung up in the Wildcats fandom as things looked promising on three courts. Knowing that they needed to win three of the four matches on the courts initially eyes were becoming wider as the number two doubles tandem were holding their own in the second. A quick look a the scorecards saw James go up early in another long set, Dinon jump out early in his third set, and Thomas and Ben holding steady at 4 all in their second.
The Capers held their ace in the hole with the #4 seeded player in the state was waiting in the wings looking the secure their third point. With the #1 doubles off first, the number ones started their match. A very confident and athletic player, the Caper would easily cruise to a 6-0 first set.
A few clutch points by the Capers in that decisive #2 doubles match forced the action to a third set. Hughes would polish off his opponent 6-1 in the third and the match was at 1-1. Up 4-3 in his second set, James would make an important changeover and take the next two game for his point. An exhausting two sets would take as long as Hughes' three setter. Meanwhile, Ben and Thomas would get down early, but battle back to three-all. Again, just a handful of points turned out to be the difference as the defending champs secured the title by winning, in close fashion, the remaining three games.
Shortly thereafter, the final coup de grace was handed to York as Jackson fell in straight sets. The gold plaque would go to Cape Elizabeth on this day and the Wildcats would have to settle for the silver. The silver one might just be the key motivator for next season as the 'Cats return six of their top seven players.
A great turnaround season by the players and a bright future ahead for all the returning players. (Coach just hopes track and field isn't too enticing next March!:-)
The ball would eventually drop while the pendulum hung around the higher seeds side of the court and the Capers would breathe the sigh of relief as they would get a chance to roll to their fourth title in a row. The Wildcats would proudly collect their well-earned hardware and quietly head home with a new vat filled with experience for the young squad.
On a blustery early afternoon at the Bates College tennis complex, both boys and girls teams from York and Cape Elizabeth squared off at the same time to decide who would represent the South at Saturday's State Championship matches (to be held down the street at Lewiston High School). With four courts to work with, the title match would see the double teams and numbers two and three singles taking to the courts first. The number one singles players would see their first action on the first available court.
Across the four courts, York took early leads 1-0. The number two doubles team of Thomas Donnelly and Ben Duffy saw their scorecards flip their way early and often. Their 6-1 first set surprised everyone and surely gave the Wildcats a boost in confidence along the four courts.
A quick first set by Dinon Hughes at #2 singles followed. However, the cards weren't flipped in York's favor as he dropped the set 3-6. On court 7, the #1 doubles team of Jack Welch and Chris D'Aquila, traded games in the first until it was 4-5. The Capers took the next game to close out the set 6-4. James Peter, on the next court over, found his action taking a lot longer. He took his defensive tactics and upped them a notch against a player who hadn't lost all year. Peter finally got the first set at 6-3 while the other matches were well into their second sets.
One court 5, Dinon would turn things around quickly in the second set, showing 6-0 on the cards before flipping his set marker to 1. More hope sprung up in the Wildcats fandom as things looked promising on three courts. Knowing that they needed to win three of the four matches on the courts initially eyes were becoming wider as the number two doubles tandem were holding their own in the second. A quick look a the scorecards saw James go up early in another long set, Dinon jump out early in his third set, and Thomas and Ben holding steady at 4 all in their second.
The Capers held their ace in the hole with the #4 seeded player in the state was waiting in the wings looking the secure their third point. With the #1 doubles off first, the number ones started their match. A very confident and athletic player, the Caper would easily cruise to a 6-0 first set.
A few clutch points by the Capers in that decisive #2 doubles match forced the action to a third set. Hughes would polish off his opponent 6-1 in the third and the match was at 1-1. Up 4-3 in his second set, James would make an important changeover and take the next two game for his point. An exhausting two sets would take as long as Hughes' three setter. Meanwhile, Ben and Thomas would get down early, but battle back to three-all. Again, just a handful of points turned out to be the difference as the defending champs secured the title by winning, in close fashion, the remaining three games.
Shortly thereafter, the final coup de grace was handed to York as Jackson fell in straight sets. The gold plaque would go to Cape Elizabeth on this day and the Wildcats would have to settle for the silver. The silver one might just be the key motivator for next season as the 'Cats return six of their top seven players.
A great turnaround season by the players and a bright future ahead for all the returning players. (Coach just hopes track and field isn't too enticing next March!:-)
Wildcats Upset Undefeated #1 Lincoln Academy
Class B South Finals Next For 'Cats
Wildcats vs. Cape Elizabeth ~~ Bates College
Thursday, June 9th ~~ 12:45 pm
The York Boys Tennis Team took the matchup against undefeated and top seeded Lincoln Academy as a challenge, a huge challenge. Pushing aside all the distractions, the Wildcats completed the upset by taking all three singles matches and rolled back to York with a birth in the Class B South Final against old nemesis Cape Elizabeth. The 3-2 score was just as close is it implied with York winning the final two points for the victory.
After a two hour drive up the jagged coast of Maine, the Wildcats stretched out their cramped legs (after a visit to Hanafords) in anticipation of the battle against the KVAC (Kennebec Valley Athletic Conference) champions. The Wildcats were not strangers to this challenge in the Newcastle/Damariscotta area. This matchup was the fourth time in the last eight tennis seasons that these two schools knocked heads. The three previous meetings was all held at Lincoln Academy and York sailed away with victories all three times. (2009, 2010, & 2013)
With four courts set in the woods and amongst new field construction, the doubles teams and numbers two and three singles were on the courts first. Things looked very rosy for York in the early going as Dinon Hughes at #2 singles moved his player successfully around the court and easily earned the 'Cats first set at 6-0. James Peter, playing #3 singles, found his opponent to be a strong player off the forehand side. James rattled his opponent by making hit more shots than he wanted to hit, and got the early 6-2 first set.
On the other side of the courts, the #2 doubles team of Thomas Donnelly and Ben Duffy found their stride midway through the first set and carried the momentum to a 6-3 first set. Facing a strong #1 doubles team was Jack Welch and senior Chris D'Aquila. They were kept on the back foot for the first set, falling 2-6.
With things looking rosy for York, nerves started to creep in. Expecting the undefeated hosts to ratchet up their games, York knew the big move was coming. Hughes maintained his composure and got the early lead in his second set. He didn't let the foot come off the pedal and was first off the court with a 6-0, 6-1 point for York. That meant the last match, #1 singles now had the court.
James Peter saw his counterpart up the ante in the second and knew he was in a joust. He got behind a game early in the set and couldn't get over the hump, falling 4-6. Under now a blazing midday sun, a third set would be, as it turned out, for all the marbles.
Meanwhile, the #2 doubles tandem got down early in the set. They fought back to tie it at 4 all. Just a mere 8 points away, they lost their stride and fell in the second 4-6. The #1 duo, however, found their step and played their opponents evenly throughout the 12 games. Into a tiebreaker it went. Back and forth it went. Serving at 6-5 in the tiebreaker, the 'Cats pair dropped the next three points in a row and quickly found themselves shaking hands. How fast it goes in the end, and Lincoln was on the board with their first point.
The third set didn't go so well for York's #2 doubles as they got down early in the third. They fought hard, but dropped the important third set 6-2. Now with the score at 2-1 Lincoln, the Wildcats looked to James to square the match.
After dropping the second set, Peter let his frustrations go right towards his concentration. He jumped out to an early 1-0 and 3-0 leads in the set. He didn't let up by keeping his opponent on the run. With Jackson Grimes winning the first set 6-2, things looked good for the 'Cats. In the words of the great Yogi Berra, "it's never over 'til it's over" rang true. James finished out his set for York's second point 6-0. All eyes turned towards the #1 singles court. Grimes got off to a solid start in the second set, but his opponent took advantage of some opportunities to keep it close. Jackson was up 5-2 at one point before dropping a couple of games. At 5-4, Grimes got a couple match points, but was forced back to deuce. Finally another match point and Jackson launched a rocket of a second serve that caught his opposition by surprise. When the ball landed wide of the alley, York had the win and a spot in the Class B South finals.
After a two hour drive up the jagged coast of Maine, the Wildcats stretched out their cramped legs (after a visit to Hanafords) in anticipation of the battle against the KVAC (Kennebec Valley Athletic Conference) champions. The Wildcats were not strangers to this challenge in the Newcastle/Damariscotta area. This matchup was the fourth time in the last eight tennis seasons that these two schools knocked heads. The three previous meetings was all held at Lincoln Academy and York sailed away with victories all three times. (2009, 2010, & 2013)
With four courts set in the woods and amongst new field construction, the doubles teams and numbers two and three singles were on the courts first. Things looked very rosy for York in the early going as Dinon Hughes at #2 singles moved his player successfully around the court and easily earned the 'Cats first set at 6-0. James Peter, playing #3 singles, found his opponent to be a strong player off the forehand side. James rattled his opponent by making hit more shots than he wanted to hit, and got the early 6-2 first set.
On the other side of the courts, the #2 doubles team of Thomas Donnelly and Ben Duffy found their stride midway through the first set and carried the momentum to a 6-3 first set. Facing a strong #1 doubles team was Jack Welch and senior Chris D'Aquila. They were kept on the back foot for the first set, falling 2-6.
With things looking rosy for York, nerves started to creep in. Expecting the undefeated hosts to ratchet up their games, York knew the big move was coming. Hughes maintained his composure and got the early lead in his second set. He didn't let the foot come off the pedal and was first off the court with a 6-0, 6-1 point for York. That meant the last match, #1 singles now had the court.
James Peter saw his counterpart up the ante in the second and knew he was in a joust. He got behind a game early in the set and couldn't get over the hump, falling 4-6. Under now a blazing midday sun, a third set would be, as it turned out, for all the marbles.
Meanwhile, the #2 doubles tandem got down early in the set. They fought back to tie it at 4 all. Just a mere 8 points away, they lost their stride and fell in the second 4-6. The #1 duo, however, found their step and played their opponents evenly throughout the 12 games. Into a tiebreaker it went. Back and forth it went. Serving at 6-5 in the tiebreaker, the 'Cats pair dropped the next three points in a row and quickly found themselves shaking hands. How fast it goes in the end, and Lincoln was on the board with their first point.
The third set didn't go so well for York's #2 doubles as they got down early in the third. They fought hard, but dropped the important third set 6-2. Now with the score at 2-1 Lincoln, the Wildcats looked to James to square the match.
After dropping the second set, Peter let his frustrations go right towards his concentration. He jumped out to an early 1-0 and 3-0 leads in the set. He didn't let up by keeping his opponent on the run. With Jackson Grimes winning the first set 6-2, things looked good for the 'Cats. In the words of the great Yogi Berra, "it's never over 'til it's over" rang true. James finished out his set for York's second point 6-0. All eyes turned towards the #1 singles court. Grimes got off to a solid start in the second set, but his opponent took advantage of some opportunities to keep it close. Jackson was up 5-2 at one point before dropping a couple of games. At 5-4, Grimes got a couple match points, but was forced back to deuce. Finally another match point and Jackson launched a rocket of a second serve that caught his opposition by surprise. When the ball landed wide of the alley, York had the win and a spot in the Class B South finals.
Boys Tennis Victorious Over Gardiner
Will Play Lincoln Academy at 1:00 pm Saturday
The Gardiner Tigers posed the first obstacle for the York Boys Tennis Team in the 2016 version of the MPA Tennis Team Championship. The #4 seeded Tigers hosted the #5 Wildcats on a cool breezy afternoon along the mighty banks Cobbosseecontee Stream just south of the state capital.
The visiting Wildcats paddled away with the 3-2 victory to advance to the Class B South semifinals. York will travel to Newcastle, Maine to do battle with longtime tournament foe Lincoln Academy. Match time is set for 1:00 pm.
With only three courts to play on, the match started with both doubles teams and #3 singles playing first. As a wispy breeze blew, the hosts took an early 1-0 lead with a straight set win at #1 doubles. Jack Welch and Chris D'Aquila couldn't find their groove against a confident opponent and fell 6-2, 6-0.
Shortly thereafter, York found themselves on top 2-1 as the #2 doubles team earned their straight set win for York's first point. Moments later James Peter shook his opponent's hand with his straight set win in the books. Thomas Donnelly and Ben Duffy's 7-5, 6-4 nail-biting win was a key point for the 'Cats. Peter's 6-3, 6-2 handling of his soft-hitting opponent set the stage for the top two singles players.
York's third point came when Dinon Hughes strategically worked his opponent around the court using angles and tricky spin just enough to confuse the home side. After winning the first set 6-3, Hughes rallied to a 5-1 lead in the second. After dropping a couple of tensed up games, Dinon finished it out and gave the Wildcats a 3-1 lead with his 6-3 second set.
On the court next to Hughes, Jackson Grimes was duking it out with the Tiger's #1 player. Grimes dropped the match point stroke into the net just as Dinon was shaking hands. The final 3-2 score was just what the Wildcats expected from their KVAC opponent in this first round of the playoffs.
Now it is on to Lincoln Academy for the semifinal tilt. It will be played at the Academy's four courts across the street from their main campus in Newcastle. First serve is set for 1:00 pm.
Congratulations to the Girls Tennis Team!!
Great win by the YHS Girls Tennis Team (seeded #8) with their victory over #1 seeded Morse, 3-2! Mia Briggs win at #1 singles in the last match was the deciding point for York. Now it is on to Lincoln Academy in Newcastle, Maine for the Class B South Semifinals. Good Luck Girls!!
Great win by the YHS Girls Tennis Team (seeded #8) with their victory over #1 seeded Morse, 3-2! Mia Briggs win at #1 singles in the last match was the deciding point for York. Now it is on to Lincoln Academy in Newcastle, Maine for the Class B South Semifinals. Good Luck Girls!!
Wildcats Secure 5th Seed in Class B South
Will Travel to #4 Gardiner
With the second win this week in their pockets, the YHS Boys Tennis Team finishes the season with a 6-6 record. The final standings show York in 5th place in the Class B South standings. With eight teams making the post-season, the 'Cats will to travel to #4 Gardiner for a quarterfinal matchup. The match will be played on Thursday, June 2 at 4:00 at Gardiner Area High School.
Click here for updated standings: MPA Class B South Standings
Nice article in the York Weekly about York Boys Tennis: York Weekly Article
Click here for updated standings: MPA Class B South Standings
Nice article in the York Weekly about York Boys Tennis: York Weekly Article
'Cats Round Out Regular Season With Win
Take Down Freeport Falcons 4-1
The York Boys Tennis Team wrapped up the regular season with their sixth win, taking down Freeport 4-1 on Wednesday afternoon. The Wildcats swept the three singles matches and also took the #2 doubles match. York finishes with a 6-6 record, good enough for what appears to be 5th place in the Class B South standing. If things hold true at this moment, the 'Cats would travel to Gardiner next week for the quarterfinals.
A perfect 6-0, 6-0 bageling at #3 singles by James Peter, York took an early 1-0 lead. The shorthanded Falcons were without their number one player (wrist injury) and maneuvered their lineup by bumping everyone up a spot.
Dinon Hughes was efficient as well, securing York's second point with a win at #2 singles, 6-2, 6-0.
The Falcons held tough, getting ahead no the #1 doubles court in both sets. Jack Welch and Chris D'Aquila mounted a charge and had each set at 4-5. The duo just couldn't get the critical points to square the sets at 5-5. They dropped the only point against on this warm and sunny day, 6-4, 6-4.
Jackson Grimes, playing in the number 1 singles slot had a rough go of it early in the first set, getting down 1-5. After figuring things out, the junior set about being more patient and not overhitting his shots. He strung together the next six games to take the first set, 7-5. Brimming with confidence, the two-year #1 cruised in the second set, 6-1. The was the third and clinching point for the Wildcats at the evened their record at 6-6.
The final point for York came at #2 doubles. Playing on the upper courts, Thomas Donnelly and Ben Duffy let a set point go in the first set during the tiebreaker. The eventually fell in the opener, 6-7 (7-9). The quickly recovered and earned a 6-3 second set in short time. With the team match no longer in doubt, the final match was decided in a tie breaker even though it was only 2 all. (The girls needed the court to start their fifth match in the boy/girl doubleheader and it was past 5:30.) In the tiebreaker, Thomas and Ben jumped out to a 4-2 lead at the changeover. Two quick points by the Falcons leveled things at 4 all. Three straight points by the home team duo sealed the match, providing York with the final 4-1 margin of victory.
A perfect 6-0, 6-0 bageling at #3 singles by James Peter, York took an early 1-0 lead. The shorthanded Falcons were without their number one player (wrist injury) and maneuvered their lineup by bumping everyone up a spot.
Dinon Hughes was efficient as well, securing York's second point with a win at #2 singles, 6-2, 6-0.
The Falcons held tough, getting ahead no the #1 doubles court in both sets. Jack Welch and Chris D'Aquila mounted a charge and had each set at 4-5. The duo just couldn't get the critical points to square the sets at 5-5. They dropped the only point against on this warm and sunny day, 6-4, 6-4.
Jackson Grimes, playing in the number 1 singles slot had a rough go of it early in the first set, getting down 1-5. After figuring things out, the junior set about being more patient and not overhitting his shots. He strung together the next six games to take the first set, 7-5. Brimming with confidence, the two-year #1 cruised in the second set, 6-1. The was the third and clinching point for the Wildcats at the evened their record at 6-6.
The final point for York came at #2 doubles. Playing on the upper courts, Thomas Donnelly and Ben Duffy let a set point go in the first set during the tiebreaker. The eventually fell in the opener, 6-7 (7-9). The quickly recovered and earned a 6-3 second set in short time. With the team match no longer in doubt, the final match was decided in a tie breaker even though it was only 2 all. (The girls needed the court to start their fifth match in the boy/girl doubleheader and it was past 5:30.) In the tiebreaker, Thomas and Ben jumped out to a 4-2 lead at the changeover. Two quick points by the Falcons leveled things at 4 all. Three straight points by the home team duo sealed the match, providing York with the final 4-1 margin of victory.
Wildcats Sweep Rams
The Boys Tennis Team scored a sweep over the shorthanded Kennebunk Rams on Monday. The 'Cats raise their record to 5-6 and are now eyeing a key spot in the Class B South standings. With the win, York stands just a handful of points behind Yarmouth and Gardiner. The Wildcats have one more very important match remaining in the regular season. The final match against Freeport on Wednesday could possibly boost York up to fourth place.
The Rams came down the 'pike with just five players. One less than their roster (due to illness), the Rams had to default at number two doubles, giving Thomas Donnelly and Ben Duffy the point.
Jackson Grimes led the 'Cats onto the court in the number one slot. With the Rams #1 out, Jackson squared off against their regular #2. A close first set (7-5) gave Jackson the confidence into the second, and he cruised to a 6-1 win.
Dinon Hughes at #2 singles made quick work of his opponent, winning 6-1, 6-0. For his efforts, Dinon got a ride over from the upper courts in the golf cart.
James Peter perhaps showed the most patience as he was forced to caress the ball much more than he wanted. The slow pace forced York's #3 to stay in points longer and wait out his opponent on many points. His patience paid off with a 6-2, 6-0 victory.
The clean sweep was polished off with a straight set win at number one doubles. Chris D'Aquila and Jack Welch cruised to victory 6-1, 6-1.
With five wins in their pockets, York has secured a spot in the playoffs. They are due to begin on Thursday, June 2nd. The top four seeds will get the home court advantage.
The second round of the playoffs will be Saturday, June 4th at the higher seed. Players need to make sure their schedules are cleared if we progress to this round.
The Rams came down the 'pike with just five players. One less than their roster (due to illness), the Rams had to default at number two doubles, giving Thomas Donnelly and Ben Duffy the point.
Jackson Grimes led the 'Cats onto the court in the number one slot. With the Rams #1 out, Jackson squared off against their regular #2. A close first set (7-5) gave Jackson the confidence into the second, and he cruised to a 6-1 win.
Dinon Hughes at #2 singles made quick work of his opponent, winning 6-1, 6-0. For his efforts, Dinon got a ride over from the upper courts in the golf cart.
James Peter perhaps showed the most patience as he was forced to caress the ball much more than he wanted. The slow pace forced York's #3 to stay in points longer and wait out his opponent on many points. His patience paid off with a 6-2, 6-0 victory.
The clean sweep was polished off with a straight set win at number one doubles. Chris D'Aquila and Jack Welch cruised to victory 6-1, 6-1.
With five wins in their pockets, York has secured a spot in the playoffs. They are due to begin on Thursday, June 2nd. The top four seeds will get the home court advantage.
The second round of the playoffs will be Saturday, June 4th at the higher seed. Players need to make sure their schedules are cleared if we progress to this round.
Doubles Tourney For Jack Welch and Thomas Donnelly
Jack Welch and Thomas Donnelly took to the courts at Waynflete on Saturday representing the Wildcats at the Western Maine Conference Doubles Tournament. Under beautiful blue skies and warming temperatures along the Fore River in Portland, Jack and Thomas played two solid matches.
Having never played together, the tandem lined up against Yarmouth's #2 team. The Clippers jumped out to a big early lead. The 'Cats scored two games on a changeover to cut the deficit to 2-7. However, Jack and Thomas couldn't get any closer and fell 8-2. With many games going to 30 all or deuce, things would look more promising as the team slid into the consolation bracket.
With a fifteen minute break in between matches, Jack and Thomas took to the court to serve it up against Greely's only entry. A back and forth 8-game pro-set set the stage for an exciting ending. Most of the advantage went to the Wildcats as they were up as many as two games at 4-2. A host of unforced errors on critical points kept the team from securing a larger lead. The Greely duo kept battling back all the way up to 7-6. York had a couple match points at the spot, but couldn't put away their opponents. Tied 7-7, York also had game points to secure at least a tiebreaker and win their 8th game. But key misses by York and good lobs by Greely kept the 'Cats on their back foot. Greely took the lead at 8-7 and with a spilled ground stroke into the net, took the match 9-7. So it was back to York with our doubles entry. They played well at times, but learned it can all go away oh so quickly in this game of Tennis.
Having never played together, the tandem lined up against Yarmouth's #2 team. The Clippers jumped out to a big early lead. The 'Cats scored two games on a changeover to cut the deficit to 2-7. However, Jack and Thomas couldn't get any closer and fell 8-2. With many games going to 30 all or deuce, things would look more promising as the team slid into the consolation bracket.
With a fifteen minute break in between matches, Jack and Thomas took to the court to serve it up against Greely's only entry. A back and forth 8-game pro-set set the stage for an exciting ending. Most of the advantage went to the Wildcats as they were up as many as two games at 4-2. A host of unforced errors on critical points kept the team from securing a larger lead. The Greely duo kept battling back all the way up to 7-6. York had a couple match points at the spot, but couldn't put away their opponents. Tied 7-7, York also had game points to secure at least a tiebreaker and win their 8th game. But key misses by York and good lobs by Greely kept the 'Cats on their back foot. Greely took the lead at 8-7 and with a spilled ground stroke into the net, took the match 9-7. So it was back to York with our doubles entry. They played well at times, but learned it can all go away oh so quickly in this game of Tennis.
Waynflete Tips Wildcats
The third match in three days for the York Wildcats saw the hosts drop their third match in row by the score of 5-0. Playing the nine-time Class C State Champion, York sought to break through during a difficult week with an upset win. Even though both teams were without their number ones, the matchups looked to be fairly close.
The doubles teams were once again very competitive as was James Peter in the number two singles slot.
The match started off under cloudless skies and a slight breeze at the YHS campus. The number one singles for the day served off on the number one court. Dinon Hughes found a hard hitting and accurate opponent across the net. After a quick first set, Dinon found his second wind and a groove with his ground strokes in the second. He fought his way to 3-5 in the 2nd, but ended up dropping the match, 6-0, 6-3.
Matt Tennant filled in the vacant #3 singles spot with #1 Jackson Grimes laid up with an illness. The team's go-to guy who fills in wherever needed, Matt worked up a large swett on the clubhouse court. His well-seasoned opponent proved too much for the 'Cats number eight player and won 6-0, 6-0. While always up to a challenge, Matt had the biggest smile of any player who'd been double bageled.
In the middle of the lower courts, the number one doubles team of Chris D'Aquila and Jack Welch saw the Wildcat's hopes dashed as they fell 6-2, 6-2. However, Chris found a nice groove through the first set with numerous volleys and overhead put-aways at the net. Jack continues to improve his groundstroke game, especially on the forehand side.
Meanwhile, on court four, James Peter was locked into a tremendous battle at #2 singles. Back and forth they went through the first set, never more that a game apart. With a 5-4 lead and serving at 30 all, James couldn't get the next critical point. The set would go to a tiebreaker and the singles player from last year's state champion would prevail. An early deficit (0-3) in the second set found James scrambling to get back into the match. Eventually getting to 2-5, James succumbed 6-2.
In the match right next to James, the number two doubles team of Ben Duffy and Thomas Donnelly saw nearly every game go to deuce. Their opponents were just a little better on this day as the York duo fell 6-2, 6-4. The second set would be the Wildcats closest second set of the day, showing the 'Cats weren't going to go away easily on this afternoon.
With the trying week now behind the 'Cats, the focus turns to two very important matches. Monday, York will square off against local foe Kennebunk. The 'Cats beat the Rams last Friday 4-1 on their home turf. On Wednesday, May 25 it will be senior day as we honor three-year player Matt Tennant and first-year player Chris D'Aquila. York will then take on Freeport in what will be huge in terms of the final Class B South standings.
The doubles teams were once again very competitive as was James Peter in the number two singles slot.
The match started off under cloudless skies and a slight breeze at the YHS campus. The number one singles for the day served off on the number one court. Dinon Hughes found a hard hitting and accurate opponent across the net. After a quick first set, Dinon found his second wind and a groove with his ground strokes in the second. He fought his way to 3-5 in the 2nd, but ended up dropping the match, 6-0, 6-3.
Matt Tennant filled in the vacant #3 singles spot with #1 Jackson Grimes laid up with an illness. The team's go-to guy who fills in wherever needed, Matt worked up a large swett on the clubhouse court. His well-seasoned opponent proved too much for the 'Cats number eight player and won 6-0, 6-0. While always up to a challenge, Matt had the biggest smile of any player who'd been double bageled.
In the middle of the lower courts, the number one doubles team of Chris D'Aquila and Jack Welch saw the Wildcat's hopes dashed as they fell 6-2, 6-2. However, Chris found a nice groove through the first set with numerous volleys and overhead put-aways at the net. Jack continues to improve his groundstroke game, especially on the forehand side.
Meanwhile, on court four, James Peter was locked into a tremendous battle at #2 singles. Back and forth they went through the first set, never more that a game apart. With a 5-4 lead and serving at 30 all, James couldn't get the next critical point. The set would go to a tiebreaker and the singles player from last year's state champion would prevail. An early deficit (0-3) in the second set found James scrambling to get back into the match. Eventually getting to 2-5, James succumbed 6-2.
In the match right next to James, the number two doubles team of Ben Duffy and Thomas Donnelly saw nearly every game go to deuce. Their opponents were just a little better on this day as the York duo fell 6-2, 6-4. The second set would be the Wildcats closest second set of the day, showing the 'Cats weren't going to go away easily on this afternoon.
With the trying week now behind the 'Cats, the focus turns to two very important matches. Monday, York will square off against local foe Kennebunk. The 'Cats beat the Rams last Friday 4-1 on their home turf. On Wednesday, May 25 it will be senior day as we honor three-year player Matt Tennant and first-year player Chris D'Aquila. York will then take on Freeport in what will be huge in terms of the final Class B South standings.
Capers Cloak Wildcats
The Cape Elizabeth Capers for the second time this season swept past the Wildcats Boys Tennis Team by a score of 5-0. With the end of the regular season just a week away, the 'Cats couldn't overcome being a man down with #1 Jackson Grimes being under the weather. For the fourth time this season, York met up with a defending state champ and are still looking to take a set from the big boys.
Dinon Hughes, himself coming off illness and not feeling his best, tackled the #3 seeded player in the State Singles Tournament Regional Qualifier. He quickly fell 0-6, 0-6 and Cape had the early lead.
Jack Welch stepped up again and played at #3 singles. He found another outstanding opponent on the opposite side of the net. His improving ground strokes and net game made it a strong challenge, but he fell 1-6, 2-6.
James Peter was up a spot and served it up against another singles tourney seeded player. Also a greatly improved game, Peter had his opponent on edge in the first set. Experience won out as the tie breaker in the first landed 5-7 to Cape. WIth the first set in hand, the Caper gained the upper edge in the second and cruised to the straight set win at 7-6 (7-5), 6-0.
The number one doubles team of Chris D'Aquila and Ben Duffy also found an opponent that are playing solid tennis. They dropped their match on the upper courts, 1-6, 1-6.
And the final parting shot went to Cape's number two doubles team. Thomas Donnelly and Matt Tennant fought proudly, but were topped 2-6, 1-6.
The Wildcats continue the toughest part of their schedule on Wednesday, May 19th with a match against 9-time defending Class C Champion Waynflete. This will mark the fifth and final match against the three defending State of Maine tennis champions. Who else has a schedule like this!?!?
Dinon Hughes, himself coming off illness and not feeling his best, tackled the #3 seeded player in the State Singles Tournament Regional Qualifier. He quickly fell 0-6, 0-6 and Cape had the early lead.
Jack Welch stepped up again and played at #3 singles. He found another outstanding opponent on the opposite side of the net. His improving ground strokes and net game made it a strong challenge, but he fell 1-6, 2-6.
James Peter was up a spot and served it up against another singles tourney seeded player. Also a greatly improved game, Peter had his opponent on edge in the first set. Experience won out as the tie breaker in the first landed 5-7 to Cape. WIth the first set in hand, the Caper gained the upper edge in the second and cruised to the straight set win at 7-6 (7-5), 6-0.
The number one doubles team of Chris D'Aquila and Ben Duffy also found an opponent that are playing solid tennis. They dropped their match on the upper courts, 1-6, 1-6.
And the final parting shot went to Cape's number two doubles team. Thomas Donnelly and Matt Tennant fought proudly, but were topped 2-6, 1-6.
The Wildcats continue the toughest part of their schedule on Wednesday, May 19th with a match against 9-time defending Class C Champion Waynflete. This will mark the fifth and final match against the three defending State of Maine tennis champions. Who else has a schedule like this!?!?
NYA Panthers Leap Over Shorthanded Wildcats
The Boys Tennis Team from York knew they had their work cut out for them in the most important Western Maine Conference match to date this season. With a shorthanded crew and blustery conditions at the Yarmouth prep school, the 'Cats could not overcome the obstacles and dropped a 0-5 decision NYA.
Murphy's Law engulfed the 'Cats boys tennis team on this mid May Monday. Yes, what could go wrong did go wrong for the young Wildcats as they looked to continue to strive to be "the best of the rest" in Western Maine Conference boys tennis. With illness permeating through YHS, York was down a couple key players and a couple others coming down with the spring season bug. What could have been an important win turned into a tail-dragging loss to another up and coming program.
The Panthers home site sports just three courts so York know it was going to be a long afternoon/evening for this important match. To start the action, #1 and #3 singles and #1 doubles would grace the courts. So it was put to the players to rise above the adversity and play way above their collective experience level. However, the illness, the cold, the wind, the noise of the adjacent highway, and the jumping up the team ladder was too much to ask.
At #1 singles, Jackson Grimes battled a fourth-year player who last Saturday made it through the regional qualifying round in the singles tournament. (He upset the seeded player making it to the final 48 of the state MPA tourney.) Battling an oncoming cold, Jackson gave it his all but fell 6-1, 6-0.
At #2, Jack Welch played two rungs above his ladder spot. He also fought hard and made tons of excellent shots as he continues to improve. Yet again, it was too much to ask as he fell 6-3, 6-2.
Chris D'Aquila also played two spots above his ladder spot. His first foray into the singles world was an eye-opener for one of the seniors in the lineup. Without a doubles partner to rely on, Chris developed points and game throughout his two sets. And once again, a seasoned singles player had a little more on this day and Chris fell 6-1, 6-3.
On the doubles side, things were a little closer for the Wildcats. Ben Duffy and Thomas Donnelly at number one dubs were tight with their opponents in both sets. However, the steadily improving duo were just a couple points short in each set, dropping 6-3, 6-3.
The closest match of the day fell to the tandem of Matt Tennant and Keenan Gamache. Seeing his first varsity action as a netter, Keenan brought a solid competitive level to combine with Matt's experience as a third year player. The team won the key points in the first set and took it 6-4. They scraped their way to a 5-4 lead in the second and even had a match point. They couldn't get the clincher and eventually had to take the 12th game to move the set to a tiebreaker. Up 5-1 in the extra frame, the duo dropped the next six points as their opponents didn't miss a shot and York had lost the second set 6-7 (5-7).
For the second match in a row, with the team outcome not in doubt, all parties agree to the Championship Tiebreaker (tiebreaker to 10 points). The Panthers tandem jumped on top first and never took the foot off the pedal and cruised to a 10-5 "third set". NYA had the sweep as they raised their record to an identical 4-4.
The Wildcats continue their most difficult week of the season as they play host to Class B champs Cape Elizabeth on Tuesday, and host Class C champ Waynflete on Wednesday.
Murphy's Law engulfed the 'Cats boys tennis team on this mid May Monday. Yes, what could go wrong did go wrong for the young Wildcats as they looked to continue to strive to be "the best of the rest" in Western Maine Conference boys tennis. With illness permeating through YHS, York was down a couple key players and a couple others coming down with the spring season bug. What could have been an important win turned into a tail-dragging loss to another up and coming program.
The Panthers home site sports just three courts so York know it was going to be a long afternoon/evening for this important match. To start the action, #1 and #3 singles and #1 doubles would grace the courts. So it was put to the players to rise above the adversity and play way above their collective experience level. However, the illness, the cold, the wind, the noise of the adjacent highway, and the jumping up the team ladder was too much to ask.
At #1 singles, Jackson Grimes battled a fourth-year player who last Saturday made it through the regional qualifying round in the singles tournament. (He upset the seeded player making it to the final 48 of the state MPA tourney.) Battling an oncoming cold, Jackson gave it his all but fell 6-1, 6-0.
At #2, Jack Welch played two rungs above his ladder spot. He also fought hard and made tons of excellent shots as he continues to improve. Yet again, it was too much to ask as he fell 6-3, 6-2.
Chris D'Aquila also played two spots above his ladder spot. His first foray into the singles world was an eye-opener for one of the seniors in the lineup. Without a doubles partner to rely on, Chris developed points and game throughout his two sets. And once again, a seasoned singles player had a little more on this day and Chris fell 6-1, 6-3.
On the doubles side, things were a little closer for the Wildcats. Ben Duffy and Thomas Donnelly at number one dubs were tight with their opponents in both sets. However, the steadily improving duo were just a couple points short in each set, dropping 6-3, 6-3.
The closest match of the day fell to the tandem of Matt Tennant and Keenan Gamache. Seeing his first varsity action as a netter, Keenan brought a solid competitive level to combine with Matt's experience as a third year player. The team won the key points in the first set and took it 6-4. They scraped their way to a 5-4 lead in the second and even had a match point. They couldn't get the clincher and eventually had to take the 12th game to move the set to a tiebreaker. Up 5-1 in the extra frame, the duo dropped the next six points as their opponents didn't miss a shot and York had lost the second set 6-7 (5-7).
For the second match in a row, with the team outcome not in doubt, all parties agree to the Championship Tiebreaker (tiebreaker to 10 points). The Panthers tandem jumped on top first and never took the foot off the pedal and cruised to a 10-5 "third set". NYA had the sweep as they raised their record to an identical 4-4.
The Wildcats continue their most difficult week of the season as they play host to Class B champs Cape Elizabeth on Tuesday, and host Class C champ Waynflete on Wednesday.
York Squeaks by Kennebunk
With the threat of rain looming in the waning afternoon hours at Kennebunk High School, the York Boys Tennis Teams turned a couple key matches around late in first sets and took a 4-1 victory over the Rams. The Rams were forced to default #2 doubles as they only have six players on the roster. However, midway through the first sets, the home side was up 4-3 on three courts. Darkening skies and spotty raindrops kept both coaches on edge as all eyes watched the scorecards flip on each changeover.
James Peter was comfortable again in his #3 singles match and got the early lead. He held on for a straight set match, securing the second point for York. James gave up only three games in his 6-1, 6-2 win.
Dinon Hughes gave the visitors the clinching point as he strolled to a 6-2 second set. After being down 3-4 in the first, he rallied for three straight games, taking the first set, 6-4. Dinon won 9 of the last 11 games pulling away for his fourth win of the season.
At number one singles, Jackson Grimes went back and forth with his fellow #1 for two straight sets. Jackson worked many games to deuce, but fell just short by a couple points in each set, falling 6-4, 6-4. That was the Rams only point as all the way down the courts the #1 doubles were in their own see-saw match.
Chris D'Aquila and Jack Welch let a few key points go the other way and fell 3-6 in the first set. They rallied to win the second in a tie breaker, 7-6 (7-5). All parties agreed to do a Championship Tiebreaker (tiebreaker to 10 points instead of 7) to decide the last point. With the team victory in hand the duo got up early and cruised to a 10-7 win in the extra frame. York had their final margin of victory and with threatening skies, they hopped on the bus (yes, we took a bus with the track team) and headed down I95 with their 4th victory of the season.
James Peter was comfortable again in his #3 singles match and got the early lead. He held on for a straight set match, securing the second point for York. James gave up only three games in his 6-1, 6-2 win.
Dinon Hughes gave the visitors the clinching point as he strolled to a 6-2 second set. After being down 3-4 in the first, he rallied for three straight games, taking the first set, 6-4. Dinon won 9 of the last 11 games pulling away for his fourth win of the season.
At number one singles, Jackson Grimes went back and forth with his fellow #1 for two straight sets. Jackson worked many games to deuce, but fell just short by a couple points in each set, falling 6-4, 6-4. That was the Rams only point as all the way down the courts the #1 doubles were in their own see-saw match.
Chris D'Aquila and Jack Welch let a few key points go the other way and fell 3-6 in the first set. They rallied to win the second in a tie breaker, 7-6 (7-5). All parties agreed to do a Championship Tiebreaker (tiebreaker to 10 points instead of 7) to decide the last point. With the team victory in hand the duo got up early and cruised to a 10-7 win in the extra frame. York had their final margin of victory and with threatening skies, they hopped on the bus (yes, we took a bus with the track team) and headed down I95 with their 4th victory of the season.
Falmouth Takes Down Wildcats for Second Time in a Week
Once again the Boys Tennis Team worked its way over the .500 mark and once again the face defending Class A State Champion Falmouth who would knock the home team 'Cats back to an even record.
The score was the same as last week, 5-0, as the Yachtsmen bumped their record up to 6-0. The Wildcats now stand at 3-3.
The home team improved their game totals against perhaps the best team in many year in the State of Maine. York won 11 games in this go-round after earning just 6 games in the first meeting.
James Peter had the tightest match, dropping 6-2, 6-4, accounting for more than half of the 'Cats games.
The match was the third against the three defending state champs. York still has matches against B Champs Cape Elizabeth and Class C Champs Waynflete. Both those matches will be home next week.
Next up for the team is important matches against Kennebunk (away on Friday) and NYA (away on next Monday) Those two matches will go a long way in determining playoff placement.
The score was the same as last week, 5-0, as the Yachtsmen bumped their record up to 6-0. The Wildcats now stand at 3-3.
The home team improved their game totals against perhaps the best team in many year in the State of Maine. York won 11 games in this go-round after earning just 6 games in the first meeting.
James Peter had the tightest match, dropping 6-2, 6-4, accounting for more than half of the 'Cats games.
The match was the third against the three defending state champs. York still has matches against B Champs Cape Elizabeth and Class C Champs Waynflete. Both those matches will be home next week.
Next up for the team is important matches against Kennebunk (away on Friday) and NYA (away on next Monday) Those two matches will go a long way in determining playoff placement.
York Wins Third of the Season
The Boys Tennis Team scored another tension filled match for their third win of the season with a 3-2 victory over Freeport. WIth the score tied at 2-2, the #2 doubles team of Thomas Donnelly and Matt Tennant notched a key third set win to earn the decisive point in an important Class B South match.
The match started with the singles players taking to the three Freeport courts. The Freeport coach decided on descending order for their home match. Jackson Grimes matched up against a four-year number one player. The Freeport One took the match in handy fashion with a 6-0, 6-0 scoreline.
Dinon Hughes took care of his opponent shortly thereafter with an efficient 6-0, 6-2 score. With the match tied at 1-1 and the doubles teams on the courts, number three Jack Welch battled his way in two tight sets. Filling in the singles slot, Jack raised his level of play and gave a solid go of it. His 6-3, 7-5 score said Jack was only a handful of points from turning the match around.
Now down 1-2, the Wildcats turned to the doubles guys with hopes of getting a come-from-behind rhythm going. The first set at #1 doubles didn't go so well for the visitors. Falling 6-1 put York in a hole, but not so deep they couldn't climb out. The team, Chris D'Aquila and Ben Duffy, turned things around in the second and squeaked out a 6-4 set.
Next door, the number two doubles team was firing on all cylinders and surprisingly eked out a 6-4 first set. The tables were turned in the second as the duo fell 4-6.
Back at #1 doubles, Chris and Ben jumped out to 4-0 and 5-2 leads in their decisive set. As #2 dubs were even early in their third, #1 was busy letting the host crawl back into the set. At 5-4 and Ben serving, numerous deuces would flow this critical game back and forth. Ben finally held on as the last shot from across the court landed in the net and York had the 2-2 tie.
Now definitely with the match in the hands of the #2 doubles, Thomas and Matt shook off the nerves and focused on each point, each shot. At 2-2, the team won four of the next five games to get the clutch victory. With wide smiles on their faces, the pair secured the win and very important points in the standing.
As of right now, York is standing in fifth place in Class B South. Seven teams make the playoffs. Halfway through the schedule, the Wildcats look primed to make the post-season for the first time since 2013.
The match started with the singles players taking to the three Freeport courts. The Freeport coach decided on descending order for their home match. Jackson Grimes matched up against a four-year number one player. The Freeport One took the match in handy fashion with a 6-0, 6-0 scoreline.
Dinon Hughes took care of his opponent shortly thereafter with an efficient 6-0, 6-2 score. With the match tied at 1-1 and the doubles teams on the courts, number three Jack Welch battled his way in two tight sets. Filling in the singles slot, Jack raised his level of play and gave a solid go of it. His 6-3, 7-5 score said Jack was only a handful of points from turning the match around.
Now down 1-2, the Wildcats turned to the doubles guys with hopes of getting a come-from-behind rhythm going. The first set at #1 doubles didn't go so well for the visitors. Falling 6-1 put York in a hole, but not so deep they couldn't climb out. The team, Chris D'Aquila and Ben Duffy, turned things around in the second and squeaked out a 6-4 set.
Next door, the number two doubles team was firing on all cylinders and surprisingly eked out a 6-4 first set. The tables were turned in the second as the duo fell 4-6.
Back at #1 doubles, Chris and Ben jumped out to 4-0 and 5-2 leads in their decisive set. As #2 dubs were even early in their third, #1 was busy letting the host crawl back into the set. At 5-4 and Ben serving, numerous deuces would flow this critical game back and forth. Ben finally held on as the last shot from across the court landed in the net and York had the 2-2 tie.
Now definitely with the match in the hands of the #2 doubles, Thomas and Matt shook off the nerves and focused on each point, each shot. At 2-2, the team won four of the next five games to get the clutch victory. With wide smiles on their faces, the pair secured the win and very important points in the standing.
As of right now, York is standing in fifth place in Class B South. Seven teams make the playoffs. Halfway through the schedule, the Wildcats look primed to make the post-season for the first time since 2013.
Wildcats Thwarted by Top Notch Falmouth
Perhaps the best team in the state of Maine in any class defeated the YHS Boys Tennis Team 5-0 Wednesday. The match was held indoors at the Foreside Fitness Center due to inclement weather.
With only three courts to play on, the doubles and #3 singles played first. Each of the 'Cats doubles squads won two games each in the first set. At #2, Ben Duffy and Thomas Donnelly learned what top-notch high school doubles play is, dropping the first 6-2 and then quickly getting dispatched 6-0 on the second.
At #1 double, Jack Welch and Chris D'Aquila also squeaked out two games in the first set, and then were also finished off 6-0 in the second. Both teams, however, learned a tremendous amount about what it takes to get to the top level in doubles in Maine. The Falmouth players played with hard strokes, precise volleys, and put away any shots that weren't well placed by York. They were effective and quick with their games.
On the singles side, James Peter managed to eek out a game in each set, falling for the first time this year, 6-1, 6-1. His opponent is well seasoned and could play number one on most teams in Maine. An ambidextrous player, the Falmouth #3 hit with tremendous pace and had James on the back foot for a lot of the match. James fought gallantly and had many games at deuce, but experience came through for the hosts. One point was so intense, after about eight shots for each player and a great put away by James, the old guys playing doubles on the next court stopped and clapped as they were watching the best point of the match.
After doubles strolled off, on strolled the #1 and #2 for the Wildcats. Jackson Grimes found himself facing another ambidextrous player (using both hands to hit forehands only!) The freshman for the Yachtsmen had all the tools to breeze through the match. 6-0, 6-0 was the final score and the home player showed why he may be in the top four for this year's singles tournament.
Dinon Hughes at #2 singles found a highly skilled player on the opposite side of the net. Heavy hitting with difficult angles to cover, the Yachtsman made easy work for his third win of the season, 6-0, 6-0.
The Wildcats will get a chance next week to put a few more games on the board against perhaps the best team in the entire state of Maine. Tuesday, May 10 will be the rematch at the YHS tennis complex.
With only three courts to play on, the doubles and #3 singles played first. Each of the 'Cats doubles squads won two games each in the first set. At #2, Ben Duffy and Thomas Donnelly learned what top-notch high school doubles play is, dropping the first 6-2 and then quickly getting dispatched 6-0 on the second.
At #1 double, Jack Welch and Chris D'Aquila also squeaked out two games in the first set, and then were also finished off 6-0 in the second. Both teams, however, learned a tremendous amount about what it takes to get to the top level in doubles in Maine. The Falmouth players played with hard strokes, precise volleys, and put away any shots that weren't well placed by York. They were effective and quick with their games.
On the singles side, James Peter managed to eek out a game in each set, falling for the first time this year, 6-1, 6-1. His opponent is well seasoned and could play number one on most teams in Maine. An ambidextrous player, the Falmouth #3 hit with tremendous pace and had James on the back foot for a lot of the match. James fought gallantly and had many games at deuce, but experience came through for the hosts. One point was so intense, after about eight shots for each player and a great put away by James, the old guys playing doubles on the next court stopped and clapped as they were watching the best point of the match.
After doubles strolled off, on strolled the #1 and #2 for the Wildcats. Jackson Grimes found himself facing another ambidextrous player (using both hands to hit forehands only!) The freshman for the Yachtsmen had all the tools to breeze through the match. 6-0, 6-0 was the final score and the home player showed why he may be in the top four for this year's singles tournament.
Dinon Hughes at #2 singles found a highly skilled player on the opposite side of the net. Heavy hitting with difficult angles to cover, the Yachtsman made easy work for his third win of the season, 6-0, 6-0.
The Wildcats will get a chance next week to put a few more games on the board against perhaps the best team in the entire state of Maine. Tuesday, May 10 will be the rematch at the YHS tennis complex.
York Pulls Off Upset Over Yarmouth
Take Third Match of the Week 3-2
Take Third Match of the Week 3-2
The Columbia Blue and White pulled off the early season upset with a 3-2 win over the Yarmouth Clippers on Friday. The third match of the first week of the regular season had the Wildcats playing in their home opener. After the first two match were on the road, the 'Cats looked to use a wild athletics Friday on the YHS campus to their advantage. York was able to keep the athletic chaos on the back burner and fought to the win in raising their record to 2-1
With a track meet, baseball and softball game, and a girls lacrosse game all going on at the same time, York jumped out to a 1-0 lead with a quick match at #3 singles. James Peter worked his opponent around the four corners of the court and gave no openings in securing the point, 6-0, 6-1. Working a variety of speeds and angles, James mixed up his game by coming to the net often, making it difficult for his opposition to gain any traction.
Soon after, the number two doubles strolled off the court with Yarmouth taking the point. The duo of Thomas Donnelly and Matt Tennant fought hard in the first set (2-6), but found a more efficient team on the other side of the net. After a brief break, the Wildcats' number twos were swept quickly 0-6 and the visitor were all square after two matches.
Meanwhile over at the upper courts, York's numbers one and two were squaring off in two important matches. With a large track crowd, multiple loud announcements, and a startling starter's pistol all creating great distractions, Jackson Grimes and Dinon Hughes squared off against similar opponents.
Dinon was able to get up on his counterpart early and use that slight advantage to gain a 6-4 first set. Right next door, Jackson took about 15 minutes to play the first game as it went to about 10 deuces. All watching should have known this was a hint that this match was going to go the distance.
At the main courts, the new pair of Jack Welch and Ben Duffy were in a tight fight in the first set at #1 doubles. However, a few critical point went Yarmouth's way, and the Clippers took the first, 7-5. This match also had the makings of being a marathon.
Shortly thereafter, Jackson finished off his first set, dropping 4-6. On court 4, Dinon once again got the slight edge in his second set, and closed the match out with another 6-4 win. The point gave York a 2-1 lead. That score looked promising, but York trailed by a set in each of the two remaining matches.
After a quick trip back to the lower courts, number one dubs fought to a tiebreaker in the second. The Clippers got the early lead in the extra game and Ben and Jack were never able to get closer than two point as Yarmouth got the 7-4 tiebreaker and the valuable team point.
Now tied at 2 all, all eyes turned back the the #1 singles court. As the track meet was fading away, Jackson scrapped and clawed to a 6-4 second set. Into the third the equally matched players went. With a biting chill coming off the ocean and the sun at a declining angle, the visitor's top player went up 3-0 after the first two changeovers. Then two more went Yarmouth's way and York was in dire straights as Jackson found himself in a 0-5 hole. Switching sides again, the 'Cats to player hardly wanted to lose the important set at love, so he battled to get his first game of the set. After another win to go 2-5, all outside the fence could sense a nervy Yarmouth player. Another changeover and another two game to York and Jackson had the score at 4-5.
With both players trying to move each other all over the court with lobs, dropshots, and angled volleys, each point became tension filled. Another hold of his serve, and Jackson had the match all square at 5. He won his sixth game in a row and appeared on the verge of the most improbably comeback in York tennis history. However, the string was broken and the Clipper secured the 12th game and the two were headed to the tiebreaker to decide their match and the overall team match.
The first four points went to Jackson as a thick tension fill the few remaining fans (mostly players and coaches). More point went back and forth and York found itself on the edge with Jackson up 6-2. Match point #1 sailed out and the score stood 6-3. Match point #2 would be the deciding point as Jackson force his opponent to move and his reply floated past the line and Grimes had accomplished the seemingly impossible by coming back from love 5 to win the match 7-4 in the tiebreaker. A jubilant coach and athletic director congratulated York's #1 who hardly understood what he'd accomplished.
The 3-2 win raised York's record to 2-1 on the young season. The two wins doubles the total match wins of the last two years combined. Things are looking up for the 'Cats and they have another winnable match on Monday as they travel to North Yarmouth Academy for a 4:00 pm joust.
'Cats Sweep Greely 5-0 For 1st Win
The York Boys Tennis Team swept its way to victory on Wednesday April 27th over the Greely Rangers. It was York's first sweep of an opponent in three years. The win ups the 'Cats record to 1-1 in the early going this season.
York jumped out to an early 2-0 lead over the hosts on a sunny but cool afternoon at the Val Halla Country Club courts. Dinon Hughes was bageling his opponent 6-0, 6-0 as newcomer James Peter was working his way through an easy 6-1, 6-1 win.
The number one doubles match got off to a good start with a 6-4 first set. The duo of Chris D'Aquila and Jack Welch were playing together for just the second time. The second set saw them drop some key points and walked off with a 4-6 loss in the second. After regrouping, the tandem waltzed through a 6-0 third set, securing the third team point and the victory.
At number one singles, Jackson Grimes dropped the first set 3-6 before turning things around in the second. He closed out a fairly tight second set, 6-2 then cruised to the win with a 6-0 third. It was Jackson's first career singles win.
The second doubles team, Ben Duffy and Thomas Donnelly, squared off against a pair of raw rookies. They rolled to a 6-0 first set and then cruised to a 6-2 second set, giving York the final margin of victory at 5-0.
The 'Cats look to create a winning streak as they host Yarmouth on Friday.
York jumped out to an early 2-0 lead over the hosts on a sunny but cool afternoon at the Val Halla Country Club courts. Dinon Hughes was bageling his opponent 6-0, 6-0 as newcomer James Peter was working his way through an easy 6-1, 6-1 win.
The number one doubles match got off to a good start with a 6-4 first set. The duo of Chris D'Aquila and Jack Welch were playing together for just the second time. The second set saw them drop some key points and walked off with a 4-6 loss in the second. After regrouping, the tandem waltzed through a 6-0 third set, securing the third team point and the victory.
At number one singles, Jackson Grimes dropped the first set 3-6 before turning things around in the second. He closed out a fairly tight second set, 6-2 then cruised to the win with a 6-0 third. It was Jackson's first career singles win.
The second doubles team, Ben Duffy and Thomas Donnelly, squared off against a pair of raw rookies. They rolled to a 6-0 first set and then cruised to a 6-2 second set, giving York the final margin of victory at 5-0.
The 'Cats look to create a winning streak as they host Yarmouth on Friday.
Wildcats Drop Opener to Cape 5-0
A mighty gale blew in off the Gulf of Maine as the Wildcats opened their 2016 tennis season at the always blustery Cape Elizabeth tennis complex. The wind howled in up the hill and made the games challenging for both squads. However, it was the defending Class B State champs who strolled to victory in both squads first match of the year. The final 5-0 did not indicate the improvements the 'Cats have made in this new season. One match went to a third set super tiebreaker and another was fought mightily before the home team took the wins.
Dinon Hughes won York's first set of the season as he sliced and diced his way to a 6-3 second set win. With the team match in the hands of the Capers, the coaches and players elected to decide the number 2 singles match with a championship or 'super' tiebreaker. The first in the tiebreaker to 10 would win the third set and the match. Hughes got the early 2-1 lead in the tiebreaker, but fell 10-6.
The number two doubles team of Matt Tennent and Chris D'Aquila teamed up for the first time and pushed their opponents to an uncomfortable place in each set. Many great points and deuce games made the home tandem uneasy. Tennent and D'Aquila both made many excellent put away shots as well as lobs and volleys. The final 6-2, 6-2 went the Capers way, but the 'Cats duo gained valuable confidence in their play.
At number 3 singles, Jack Welch dropped a 6-1, 6-1 decision, but many games went well into deuce play. Welch, making his varsity singles debut, has also gained valuable confidence in going against a state champ.
Jackson Grimes, playing at number one singles for the second year, drew a match against one of the top singles players in Maine. He dropped the blustery match 6-0, 6-0.
A hearty welcome to high school tennis was given to York's number one doubles team of Ben Duffy and Thomas Donnelly. Again playing against players who were integral in 3-time defending champion Cape's run to the 2015 title, the York pair learned what it is like playing against the big boys and fell, 6-0, 6-0.
Excellent efforts were also given by the exhibition match players, Jack Lampinen, Alex Cutler, and Giri Ramgulam.
The 'Cats hit the road again on Wednesday as they travel to Greely in what is expected to be a close match. The match will be played at the courts at Val Halla Country Club in Cumberland.
Dinon Hughes won York's first set of the season as he sliced and diced his way to a 6-3 second set win. With the team match in the hands of the Capers, the coaches and players elected to decide the number 2 singles match with a championship or 'super' tiebreaker. The first in the tiebreaker to 10 would win the third set and the match. Hughes got the early 2-1 lead in the tiebreaker, but fell 10-6.
The number two doubles team of Matt Tennent and Chris D'Aquila teamed up for the first time and pushed their opponents to an uncomfortable place in each set. Many great points and deuce games made the home tandem uneasy. Tennent and D'Aquila both made many excellent put away shots as well as lobs and volleys. The final 6-2, 6-2 went the Capers way, but the 'Cats duo gained valuable confidence in their play.
At number 3 singles, Jack Welch dropped a 6-1, 6-1 decision, but many games went well into deuce play. Welch, making his varsity singles debut, has also gained valuable confidence in going against a state champ.
Jackson Grimes, playing at number one singles for the second year, drew a match against one of the top singles players in Maine. He dropped the blustery match 6-0, 6-0.
A hearty welcome to high school tennis was given to York's number one doubles team of Ben Duffy and Thomas Donnelly. Again playing against players who were integral in 3-time defending champion Cape's run to the 2015 title, the York pair learned what it is like playing against the big boys and fell, 6-0, 6-0.
Excellent efforts were also given by the exhibition match players, Jack Lampinen, Alex Cutler, and Giri Ramgulam.
The 'Cats hit the road again on Wednesday as they travel to Greely in what is expected to be a close match. The match will be played at the courts at Val Halla Country Club in Cumberland.
Wildcats Look Solid in Opening Scrimmage
The boys tennis team used its first scrimmage of the season show where it's at here in the early going. Under threatening skies and a chilly breeze, the team worked on numerous aspects of their games. The returning players found their grooves and pressed their will upon their opponents. The team from Marshwood is rebuilding with many young and inexperienced players. York was able to construct points and play out games to their advantage. The entire lineup was victorious as all eight players earned spots in the win column.
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