While the Timothy Christian girls tennis team graduated four starters from last year’s team, coach Rick McLean still has plenty of talent on his roster.
The Trojans have 10 returning players and eight seniors on the squad this season. Timothy went 9-3 in dual matches last year, finished second at the Chicagoland Christian Conference tournament, third at the Class 1A Chicago Latin School sectional and finished fourth in the Niles West tournament.
Headlining a list of returners are junior Brooklynn Bunn and Annika Lemkuil, who both qualified for state in doubles last year.
Junior Laura LaBardi is a previous state qualifier, a two-time all-conference selection and team captain. Junior Allyson Tandy was an all-conference pick in doubles, as was senior Elizabeth Van Den Berg.
McLean noted junior Hannah Huizenga improved her skills and will see additional matches this year, while senior Olivia Watson also is improved and will add to the Trojans’ doubles lineup. Senior Chloe Wilgenburg is a returning singles player who adds depth to the team in singles and doubles.
Senior Sadie Tameling also returns and adds strength to the doubles lineup, while senior Ella Becvar has moved up to varsity and will add depth to the doubles teams, McLean noted.
“We return 10 experienced players and have added three newcomers who will strengthen our depth and talent,” McLean said.
Key newcomers include freshman Brie Kellough, who McLean calls a talented player “who will help with singles and doubles play,” he said.
Senior Maddie Huffstter is a team co-captain who adds depth in the singles division, while senior Heidi Phillip will add strength to Timothy’s doubles efforts, McLean noted.
Looking at the conference, McLean said the CCC is always competitive with Wheaton Academy, Woodstock Marian Central Catholic, Chicago Christian, Kankakee Bishop McNamara and new to the conference this year, Aurora Rosary.
“We will play a competitive non-conference schedule and with the return of 10 players from last season and three talented new team members, the outlook is positive,” McLean said. “We have four all-conference selections and two state qualifiers returning. The newer team members will be counted on to add depth. We look forward to a full season of tennis, continued skill development and having fun.”
The Trojans will play in five regular-season invitationals at Ottawa, Niles West, Willowbrook, Elk Grove and Lemont.
