Youthful Loggers show promise in opening tennis matches

The Libby Loggers tennis teams hit the courts March 25 for their season opening match against the Polson Pirates and Hamilton Broncs, both matches played in Polson.

You might not recognize a number of Loggers as they stepped off the bus. The team lost 14 seniors from last year, players that offered leadership and valuable points on the season.

Also missing were current varsity players. The Lady Loggers had to bump up several junior varsity players to fill its roster.

The varsity line up of the boys team included one senior, five juniors, two sophomores and two freshmen.

“It was an eye-opener for most of the kids,” Head coach Kyle Harrah said. “It was their first varsity match. They stepped up and played their hearts out.”

The Loggers dropped their duals match against the Polson Pirates, 6-1. The Hamilton Broncs also defeated the Loggers, 6-1.

Against the Pirates, No. 3 seed Libby sophomore Tyler Andersen picked up a tie-breaking victory over Tate Barentsen.

“Tyler didn’t play last year,” Hannah said. “That was his first tennis match. He stepped up and played well.”

In doubles play, the Lady Loggers’ Allie Thorstenson and Ellie Andreessen outmatched Polson’s Camilla Forest and Karli Owen.

“Allie and Ellie continue to get better,” Hannah said. “In a few more weeks, they’ll be able to compete with anyone.”

Thorstenson later dropped a match to Hamilton’s Emma Hollingsworth, the No. 3 seed girls singles player.

Andreessen, in the No. 4 singles spot, picked up a win over Hamilton’s Kristen Jessop.

The Loggers take to the road again for an April 9 matchup against the Ronan Chiefs and Maidens. Matches are scheduled to start 11 a.m.

The Lady Loggers lost to Polson, 6-1, and fell 4-3 to Hamilton.

Editor's note: This story has been updated to reflect Libby Lady Loggers results during match play.