NEWARK VALLEY - The Cardinals' tennis team is made up of quite a few first year players this season, but there is no shortage of athletes looking to make an impact in 2025.

Newark Valley does return Michael Wandell, their number one singles player from last season. The junior has taken on the role of co-captain and is serving well as a mentor to the younger athletes.

"Michael's experience and drive to improve has put him in an excellent spot to have a stand-out season at number one singles," said head coach Meredith Meister.

Co-captain and the only senior on the team, Emma Smith will be in the second singles slot for the spring. Smith, a real hustler has put a ton of work in this offseason to improver her game heading into 2025.

At third singles is Owen Jerabek. This will be Jerabek's first season playing tennis, but the sophomore has shown some real strides and is picking things up fast.

"Owen has picked up the rules and strategies quickly and has improved an amazing amount since the start of the season. He is definitely a player to watch as his game develops over the season," commented Meister.

First doubles is currently looking like junior, Nathan Engbith and sophomore, Vincent Finta. At second doubles is the duo of Andrew Lelik and Brianna Noble.

"Both Andrew and Bri are first year players and have worked very hard this season to earn a spot on the varsity lineup," Meister said.

"The athletes and I cannot wait to take the court. It’s been a very fun preseason but we are ready to compete."

Newark Valley tennis open their season on March 31st at Southern Cayuga.

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IN PHOTO: Owen Jerabek