GREENCASTLE — Under the direction of Terry Fields, Covington boys tennis has been a model of consistent success. Yet, Covington has never done what it is doing this season.
The Trojans will play in their first-ever state finals at noon today as they take on No. 7 Zionsville at the DePauw Indoor Tennis Center in Greencastle.
After knocking off Seeger in the sectional championship 5-0, Northview at the regional championship 4-1, and Rushville 3-2 in the semi-state Championship, the Trojans are one of the final eight teams remaining in the state.
Coming into the season, Fields knew his team had the potential to accomplish something special.
“We had everyone back from last year,” Fields said. “We felt we had the potential to be very successful. A couple of our players spent a lot of time playing during the off season. Our senior leadership this season has also played a big factor into our success.”
The Trojans are led by Evan Norton at No. 1 singles. He holds a season record of 22-1. Calvin Springer locks down the No. 2 singles spot with a dominating record of 23-1.
The tandem that could be the most impressive for Covington is the duo of Nolan and Myles Potter at No. 1 doubles. The Potter brothers come into the state quarter-finals without a blemish on their record at 24-0.
“All of those guys have played outstanding for us,” Fields said.
After the conclusion of last season, the Trojans set a goal for themselves to win the regional. As the season started to progress, and the wins started to pile up, they started to realize that goal could become a reality.
“When we started to win a few of our early-season tournaments like at West Vigo and Western Boone, we started to see that we were a very good team,” Fields said. “We also defeated Terre Haute North in what was our first official match. A combination of all of those things made us realize that we have a shot to do something special.”
Being one of the final eight teams remaining in the state, Covington still wants to go out and advance. However, Fields also wants his team to enjoy the moment and use this experience to bond together.
“Seeing them come together as a unit has been fun to watch,” he said. “We want them to win, but we want them to enjoy the experience — to have no regrets when they are finished with their match. They can only control themselves. They must know they gave the very best effort and learn from it. That is all they can do.”
Back on the court, the Trojans opponent in Zionsville presents a tough test. The Eagles are back at the state finals for the second time in three seasons.
“To advance in the tournament we must play at a higher level,” Fields said. “Zionsville is the best school we will have faced and they are solid throughout. We must come in focused, relaxed and take advantage of any opportunity we get.”
The winner between the Trojans and Eagles will play the winner of Westview and Jasper at 10 a.m. Saturday at Carmel High School.
