Kicking off the 2021 fall team season, tennis travels to Centennial High School to take on the Titans Friday at 4:00 p.m. with an atmosphere of determination persisting through the team as they have high hopes.

“It’s always our ultimate goal to make it to playoffs,” head coach Erica Dopson said. “We have a strong district so it’ll be tough, but it’s definitely something we can accomplish.”

The Redhawks have good reason to be hopeful, as they come back this year with good depth and the likes of returning state competitors juniors Sanjheev Rao and Milla Dopson. 

Senior Charlie Zhang believes that the team’s energy could make a difference this year.

“I think we are definitely going to bring more energy and hype up our teammates,” Zhang said via text. 

However, playing a rival like Centennial brings extra weight to the match. Coach Dopson sees this competition as an important opportunity to begin the season on a good note.

“I’m looking for a lot of fight,” coach Dopson said. “We need consistency and communication between the doubles teams.”

If that happens, Zhang says the Redhawks have a chance at the win.

“I think we can clutch the win if everyone performs,” Zhang said. “Confidence will be the key and it’ll be close.”