HGJVT faces a formidable opponent

Once again, the HGJVT put on a great display of exciting tennis and terrific points during their match against Dalton at the Century Country Club.  We have had many close matches against Dalton in the past, and today was no different.  The score does not do justice to the high caliber of play that took place with two of the matches ending in third set tie-breakers. 

Catherine faced an opponent who did not miss many shots.  After losing the first set, Catherine tried a new strategy and won the second set decisively.  The third set was one long rally after another, and although the win went to Dalton, Catherine in true fashion fought hard for every point.  

Calista and Mira faced a strong team that took an early lead and never looked back.  It was an uncharacteristically short match that left our girls thinking about new strategies and ways to improve an already strong partnership.

Sam and Hadassah earned us our one win with an exciting finish in the second set tie-breaker.  This duo plays well under pressure and does not like to give many points away.  Today's match was no different. Even when trailing in the second set, Sam and Hadassah were cool, calm and collected as they continuously demonstrated a combined pattern of steady and aggressive.  To see them close out the second set was wonderfully satisfying as Dalton pushed hard for a third set tie-breaker, only to fall very short of their goal.  Well done, ladies.

Becky and Olivia had another close match that unfortunately did not go their way.  Dalton got the win, but our girls are still deserving of much praise for their strong play and amazing execution of shots.  Becky has become a pro of re-directing the ball and placing it where her opponents are not, and Olivia has gained a confidence at the net that is just so wonderful to see.  I think if we were to play Dalton again, the win would go to these two.

Emily and Maymay played a match that was much closer than the score suggests.  Maymay was on fire with her backhand return and strong baseline shots.  She has hit her stride and it's wonderful to see her playing with such confidence.  Emily had her usual put away shots at the net and did her best to overcome some disappointing service games.  The support and team work these two continually show is but another reminder of the winning ways of this fabulous group of girls.  Go, Hack!