HGJV Tennis takes first loss in stride

In our first away match at Van Cortlandt Park, we came up short against Horace Mann.  As the number one team in the league, we knew this was not going to be an easy match.   Although the scoreboard shows a 1-4 loss, there were many moments of small victories, both in play and sportsmanship, that served as yet another reminder of how terrific this team truly is.

All four doubles team faced formidable opponents with strong serves and great net play, but in classic Hackley spirit, our girls raised their level of play in the second set and did not give up the fight until the last point was won.  In Becky and Olivia's match, they staged an exciting come back in the second set, keeping the pressure on Horace Mann until the very last point of the match.  It was but one example of sheer determination to make the other team work harder than perhaps they were expecting. 

One of the main highlights of the day was clearly Catherine's win in two tie-break sets.  She showed her usual style of attack play and commendable resolve to never give up, even when behind, against an opponent who was similar in many ways.  The long rallies interspersed with blistering groundstrokes and put away shots at the net made the longer than anticipated stay at the park worth it.  Seeing Catherine win her first match was riveting, but even more compelling was watching her teammates applaud both players for their high caliber of play. 

Given that our past losses to Horace Mann have included thrashings too numerous to count with many 6-0, 6-0 scores, we take pride in celebrating every and all achievement.  Hearing Odessa remark that she enjoyed her match and felt good about her game after a 4-6 loss is the perfect reminder of what it is all about.  And yes, Hadassah, it's supposed to be fun too.  The season is far from over with more exciting match play in store for this very talented and winning team.  Hack on three!