On Mar. 27, the Decatur High School (DHS) boys varsity tennis team gained another win to add to their 12-0-1 season. Noted by the players, this season has been one of the most successful in years, not only due to the record but also the environment on the team. Due to their successful record, they have guaranteed themselves first in the 5AAAAA region. 

“We have great team chemistry, we have a good coach […], so we’re able to have a good lineup and just be able to push through any of these opponents,” senior Julian Lagon said.

One of the more notable wins of the season was on Feb. 27 when the DHS team beat 20-time state tennis champions, Marist School.  This was a big accomplishment for the team, as the senior players have not beaten Marist since they have been at DHS. 

One tactic Lagon credits their success with is the use of “sandbagging” in their matches.  

“We put our strongest people on our doubles, because not many people would put their strong people on their doubles but, we have a strong lineup all the way through,” Lagon stated.

By winning both doubles sets ( played with two people), and only needing to win one of the singles sets ( played by one person), the team successfully boosts their chances of winning matches overall. 

To add to the team’s environment, the team is happy with their new coach’s mindset for the season. DHS teacher David Messer recently stepped into the role of varsity head coach.

“Mr. Messer [is] on the grind always. He’s always looking out for us and he’s a great guy,” Lagon said. 

As for the future of this spring season, the team hopes to go far in states. They feel confident with the skill and commitment of the team that they have a chance to win the state championship.