The defending national champion Lady Hawks tennis team has qualified for the national tournament once again, by winning the state tournament for the third year in a row.
With a record of 13-10 as of press time, head coach Chad Berryhill is confident in his team going into nationals, "[our record] is deceiving because we have played the toughest schedule in the country," said Berryhill.
"It includes Division I schools and four teams ranked in the top ten nationally in division II, and the top ranked team in the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics)," Berryhill said. Despite the tough schedule and the team's success, Berryhill believes that the team still has work to do.
"There is not one part of our game that I think needs improvement because I think we can always improve in all areas," said Berryhill, who adds that he would like to see the doubles step up and win the tight matches.
Players Jillian O'Neill and Olivia Howlett have been a big part of the teams' success this season. Respectively, they are the No. 1 and No. 3 ranked players in the country. Together, they are the No. 1 ranked doubles team in the country.
"When you have those two giving your team three points every match it is a huge advantage," said Berryhill.
Players Courtney Spafford and Brittney Bowden have stepped up their play as well and have contributed to the team's success this season.
The only part of the team's game Berryhill is concerned with is the mental part of the game.
"Nationals are a big stage for these athletes and they are going to have to fight through anxiety and nervousness," said Berryhill.
"They just need to focus on their breathing and playing one ball at a time rather than worrying about who they play and what the score is."
The national tournament will begin on May 2 and takes place in Tucson, Ariz.
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