Panthers Tennis Eyes States for a Third Consecutive Year

The Masuk High boys tennis team looks to continue its winning ways this season. After qualifying for the state tournament for a second consecutive year last season, the Panthers are packed with seniors and returning starters with eyes to increasing the string a third year.

“Last year ended on a very positive note,” said coach Paul Ballas of 2010's 8-7 season. “We lost five key seniors from the previous season, so it gave some underclassmen a chance to contribute. It took us to the end of the season to get to states, but we got there so I was very happy with that.”

The Panthers will be significantly helped in their quest for three postseason appearances by the return of No. 1 and No. 2 singles players and co-captains, seniors Stephen Diamond and Sonny Caplash. Last year, the two teamed up in the Class L state tournament and advanced to the third round in the doubles competition.

“They bring leadership and a positive influence,” Ballas said of his captains. “They exhibit sportsmanship on every level. They are very complementary of the younger guys and have been a pleasure to coach over four years.”

Sophomore Jon Plavnicky gained solid experience as a member of Masuk's No. 1 doubles team last spring and secured the No. 3 singles spot this season. Seasoned senior Ryan Sandor rounds out the singles spots at No. 4.

“Experience is definitely our strength,” Ballas said. “If I wanted to, I could put 10 seniors on the court to play. Not all of them have been here for four years, but they definitely have played for three years, so our experience goes a long way. These seniors have been to states as a team two years in a row. They know what is at stake. They know how hard it is to get there.”

The Panthers' experience is featured prominently in their doubles teams.

Last year's No. 3 singles, senior Jon Strumpf, has teamed up with junior Ryan Beauchamp, who was a member of last year's No. 1 doubles, to fill this season's top doubles spot. Senior Ryan Powers and junior Jimmy Boivie will play No. 2 doubles and seniors Ryan Royle and Sean McAlister bring veteran experience to No. 3 doubles.

With their sights set squarely on the state tournament, Ballas hopes Caplash and Diamond can have another long run in the postseason and their teammates can deliver some surprises, but he is also looking to the future and laying the groundwork to run the postseason streak to four years.

“The goal is to make states and hopefully get our players past that quarterfinal round, especially for Sonny and Stephen if they want to play together again based on how far they went last year,” Ballas said.

“My goal is to also see what the future brings and to see what I can shape and mold for next season," he added. "A lot of the top guys play year round or work with pros at their clubs and there is only so much I can do, so I like to work with the guys that are number 10 on the ladder, the junior varsity and the guys that are one day going to be those varsity guys. I'm looking forward to working with those guys and setting up for next season.”