“When we don’t have a match we’re practicing after school and some of us practice on the weekends as well,” junior tennis captain Jacqueline Smith told The Fanscotian.
The Scotch Plains-Fanwood girls tennis team’s work has been paying off recently, and putting everyone in Union County on notice, starting off the season with a record of 8-1. With wins over the likes of Union Catholic and Rahway, the Raiders sit second in the Union County Conference standings and have stayed undefeated in the Mountain Division.
“It feels great to know that we’ve improved so much over the last few years, and everyone is doing their part to continue to grow as players for the team,” senior Grace Macdougall said.
Coming off an 8-10 season where SPF lost two key players, the Raiders have heavily relied on first singles player freshman Sonia Trivedi and second singles player Jacqeuline Smith to add firepower on the court. Smith attests the recent victories to the team’s work effort, which has been shown through their dedication to the sport.
“I think we’ve all been diligent in practicing outside of matches, and we have a really good new addition to the team, our first singles player Sonia [Trivedi],” Macdougall said.
Additionally, the first doubles duo of senior Kamaryn Nesmith and junior Julia Pissarnitki have consistently contributed victories helping SPF come out on top.
“Our coach pushes us to achieve things we didn’t think we could do,” Pissarnitski said.
Under third year head coach Barbara Joyner, the Raiders look to reach the top of the pyramid where they once sat as Group 3 Champions in 2021.
“I will continue focusing and being intentional in my game and communicating with my doubles partner,” Pissarnitski said.
Smith explained the importance of the team’s annual trip to the US Open in August, and how it led to creating a cohesive unit before the season kicked off.
“Coach J’s annual pre-season trip to the US Open isn’t just about tennis, it’s a powerful team bonding experience that strengthens our connection, builds trust, and sets the tone for the season ahead,” Smith said.
Roughly half way through the season, the Raiders will look to stay dominant on the court to finish their 2025 campaign.
“From the team perspective and as the captain of the varsity girls tennis team, I plan to continue supporting, encouraging and cheering my team members on to play their best,” Smith said.
