Kankakee Valley High School

The temperature outside couldn’t have been more mild or pleasant as the sun was blocked out by the clouds almost completely. There was a pocket of darkness that caused some worry about potential rain, especially after all of the turbulent weather lately, but it soon passed without any issue. In between most of the courts, new handmade benches sat. The team had worked together with Coach DeVries to build them. Benton Central was gracious enough to offer playback matches to try to get as many Kougars as possible the opportunity to compete. While players waited for their turn, or after they ended their matches, they sat on the bleachers and watched their teammates on the courts closely. Observing play can do wonders for newer players to the sport wanting to improve. On the varsity side, #1 doubles duo Nathan Hanson and Oliver Dutton worked hard together. Their effective communication and support for each other could be heard courts over. There was an excitement and passion in their match as they worked together to keep their energy up. After their match, Hanson and Dutton both talked about how it has been a process adjusting to playing doubles instead of singles, but could feel their skills together growing. They had fun and really enjoyed playing as a duo! The last playback match began on court four as the last two varsity matches continued on with scores neck and neck in their current sets. #2 singles Joel Previs didn’t let a tough first set stop his drive to be competitive, having a massive burst of drive during his second set. It was grueling, and despite it all, Previs pushed on, even when his opponent hit very precise, challenging placement shots. The final varsity match was #2 doubles with Duke Blanco and Caleb Lindberg. The rest of the team surrounded the fence in front of them to get a good view of their fierce battle. After an incredibly close second set ended in a score of 6-7, a ten-point tiebreaker was in order. The duo talked with Coach DeVries briefly and got their heads in order before successfully winning their match! As the entire team circled up together, an inter-team match briefly paused their game play to join everyone. The team celebrated Blanco and Lindberg for their victory, and reflected on everyone’s matches for the day. A lot of these players were new to the varsity level, and it was inspiring to watch them adapt and grow. Look out, everyone! The Kougars will be practicing tomorrow, and then back out to compete on Thursday more polished and prepared! - JV Coach Lauren Anderson