By John Mesh
The Hutchinson Trinity Catholic High School girls tennis team returns several experienced players from the 2023 team.
The Celtics are coached by Gallagher Martin. He is entering third season coaching the Trinity girls. In the spring, Martin will begin his fifth year coaching the Trinity boys.
Some key returners for the Celtics girls team include seniors Ava Madden, Bianca Salazar, Lindyn Nelson and Michelle Koehler.
“This is a large senior class for us and these four seniors will lead the way for our team this season,” Martin said.
Martin said Madden is the Celtics’ top player.
“She played No. 1 singles for us last year and was one match away from qualifying for the state tournament,” Martin said. “She lost a very close 7-5, 7-6 match last year to a tough player from Ellsworth in the match that would determine whether or not she went to state. She has set goals to qualify for state this year and I believe she is more than capable of doing so.”
The Trinity doubles team of Salazar and Nelson have been playing together since their sophomore seasons.
“They have awesome chemistry and have improved greatly since they first started playing tennis,” Martin said. “They will be our top doubles team this season.”
Michelle Koehler joined the Celtics’ tennis team last year.
“She is very athletic and has picked tennis up quickly,” Martin said. “I am unsure if she will play singles or doubles, but either way she will be a key player for us.”
Returning juniors for us include Aissa Lorden, Therese Little and Hazel Wuertz.
“These three juniors will all be fighting for two remaining varsity spots,” Martin said. “Regardless, all three are great kids and I am very happy they are out for tennis.”
Trinity has one returning sophomore in Kaylee Reboul.
“She was a beginner last year as a freshman and she is still learning the sport,” Martin said. “She’s another great player for team chemistry. We also have anywhere from four to five newcomers as well.”
Trinity Catholic 2024 girls tennis schedule
Sept. 3 @ Ellsworth, 1 p.m.
Sept. 5 @ Sterling, 3 p.m.
Sept. 12 @ Wichita Classical (JV), 3:30 p.m.
Sept. 12 @ TC, 3 p.m.
Sept. 17 @ Ellinwood, 1 p.m.
Sept. 17 @ Hesston, 3 p.m.
Sept. 26 @ Hillsboro, 3 p.m.
Sept. 26 @ Hesston (JV), 3 p.m.
Oct. 3 @ Circle, 3 p.m.
Oct. 7 CPL League (Wichita State University), 8 a.m.
Oct. 11-12 Regionals
Oct. 18-19 State
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