Returning seniors lead boys tennis

A trio of returning seniors will lead the boys tennis team this season as the Bulldogs look to put some pressure on the defending state champs in Polson.

About 18 boys are on a roster that is full of potential.

“There’s room to grow and I think we’ll improve a lot,” Whitefish coach Chris Schwaderer said. “We have a pretty solid team — top to bottom.”

Seniors Logan Blades, Holden Roberts and Bailey Jack appear ready to lead the effort.

Blades placed fourth at the state Class A tournament last year with doubles partner Sean Janni.

“It’s good to have experienced players who have been there and know what it takes to advance in the postseason,” Schwaderer said.

Blades has played on the tennis team all four years.

“He’s one of those hard-working kids you like to have around,” Schwaderer said.

Roberts comes into the season bigger and stronger after battling at the No. 1 singles slot last season.

“I expect him to do well,” Schwaderer said.

Both Blades and Roberts trained in the off-season in Kalispell.

“That’s what it takes these days to succeed in tennis,” Schwaderer said. “The teams and players that do well have to commit to training outside of the season.”

Jack made significant strides with his game last year and looks sharp this spring, Schwaderer said. He could be teamed up in doubles with fellow senior Tommy Murphy, a newcomer to the team.

“They’re both athletic, aggressive and very competitive,” Schwaderer said.

The Bulldogs have a tradition of fielding a powerhouse doubles team. Schwaderer says the duo looks ready to carry the torch.

“I like that we can put good doubles teams on the court,” the coach said. “You have to be a little scrappier and have more heart in doubles. We have a lot of those players in our program.”

Joining the team this season is assistant coach Amity Sparks, a local physical therapist. She’s helped develop a training and conditioning program for the team.

“The focus is to be stronger and better conditioned,” Schwaderer said. “We want to develop the whole athlete.”

With the courts covered in snow, the Dogs have only practiced inside the gym. They started shoveling the courts Thursday.

“I’m hoping we can get on a court before our first match,” Schwaderer said.

The defending state champs in Polson come into the season as the team to beat.

“They’ll be tough — really tough,” Schwaderer said. “We hope to put some heat on them.”

Libby and Columbia Falls and Whitefish should be evenly matched.

Whitefish opens the season at home April 10 against the Wildcats.