Going into last season, hopes were high for the Wahlert boys’ tennis team.  The team returned Jackson Takes, ‘16, and Jack Lucy, ‘18, from the 2015 season while also featuring newcomers Michael Scherr, ‘16, Jimmy Chapman, Carson Kunkel, Louis Ungs, Hunter McDonald, and Riley Collins, ‘18.  Strong play and determination led the team to the state tournament with the top seed for Class 1A.

“We went into the tournament with the mindset that we were going to win,” said Riley Collins, ‘18.

The team was first matched up with Grinnell, which ended in a 5-0 shutout victory.  The final opponent that stood between them and the state title was second seeded LeMars. It was never close as Wahlert won 5-1 to take home the state championship team title for Class 1A.

“It was a great experience to win state, and everyone on the team just hopes to have the opportunity to do it again,” said Lucy.

The experience of a state tournament is arguably most important for what it teaches athletes, regardless of the outcome.  This is true no matter what sport because of how it brings teams together and shows the right way to approach playing a sport.

“The state experience taught me to always keep your head up and keep a positive outlook,” said Ungs.

Next year, the team looks to build on their success and will attempt a return to the state tournament.