Princeton Day School Offers a Talented Girls' Tennis Team

Ed Tseng doesn't offer up predictions on what the record will be for the Princeton Day School girls' tennis team this year, but talent usually wins out in the end.

"They look great," said Tseng, who is entering his first season as the coach at Princeton Day School. "The things I look for in players are attitude and effort. Those two things have been through the roof. They have athletic ability as well."

Princeton features Samantha Asch, a junior, at first singles. She is the defending champion in the Mercer County Tournament.

"She is one of the top players in the state and is also ranked in the country," Tseng said.

Nicole Keim, a senior, plays at second singles.

"She's another solid player," Tseng said. "She works hard and has talent. She does a lot of right things."

Mary Atkenson, a junior, plays at third singles.

"She is very athletic," Tseng said. "If Mary is playing well and healthy, she can have a really good season."

Hope Boozan and Emily Dyckman, both freshmen, play at first doubles.

"Regardless the age, I'm thrilled by the effort and work ethic I get from these girls," Tseng said. "They never give up. That goes a long way."

At second doubles are Allie Persky (junior) and Emily Seto (junior).

"They got some experience playing on the team last year," Tseng noted. "They also never give up. Win or lose, they always take something away from the match."

Princeton Day is scheduled to open the season with a match against Peddie School on Monday, Sept. 12.

"Nothing is guaranteed, but I'm optimistic about this season," Tseng said. "I'll be interested to see what kind of record we have at the end of the season. We certainly have a group of girls that can play with anyone."

Tseng stresses the ability to beat anyone will come with effort, desire and playing all parts of a tennis game correctly.

"When you focus just on winning, you don't win very much," Tseng said. "We're focused on the process. We're doing a great job with that so far."