Lori Guard will return for her second season at the helm of North Montgomery girls tennis in 2023. A season ago the Chargers saw improvement all the way until their final match of the season which came in a narrow 3-2 defeat to Parke Heritage in the sectional.
That team featured four seniors last season as the Chargers will look to replace No. 1 singles player Carlie DeSmet while the one doubles team of Allison Guard and Sydnee Turner along with Courtney Engles at two doubles.
Having some holes to fill in the lineup hasn’t stopped Guard from being impressed with her team in the practices that have led up to the beginning of the season.
“We have had good practices despite challenging weather already,” she Guard said. “I am seeing each player work hard and continue to improve each practice. We started winter workouts mid January and the team really committed to showing up for those workouts which I believe is paying off now that we can get outside and hit balls on the court.”
In year one a season ago, Guard was focusing improvement and not too concerned about the overall wins and losses on the court. Now in year two she is focused on her team putting together some more wins on the board and believes they have the talent to do so.
“We’re hoping to put up more wins than last year, individually and as a team,” she said. We would like to get more conference wins than last season as well. Also, want our players to compete hard until the end of each match. We have several freshman who show real talent, and with the return of almost all underclassman our lineup is going to be competitive for the varsity positions.”
Lastly Guard took the time to compliment her returning players who were mostly underclassmen and the growth that they’ve shown early on.
“I’m amazed at the growth and strength of returning players since last season,” she concluded. “They are hitting the ball with intention, strength and accuracy. We are anticipating the varsity experience that many of them bring to this season will translate to success.”
The Chargers open up their season Wednesday with a trip to Harrison.
