Viera boys, girls tennis teams have high hopes for postseason success

Viera boys, girls tennis teams have high hopes for postseason success

BY JULIE STURGEON

The Viera High School boys tennis team should be a strong contender for the district title.

Photo by Julie Sturgeon

Viera High School’s tennis season is in full swing, with a busy schedule for both the boys and girls teams during this month.

Manuel Rosales, the new coach for the boys team, has brought a fresh perspective and renewed vigor to the Hawks matches.

“Tennis is a sport that is very individual,” Rosales said. “But for the high school team, my approach is defining things we all need to do as a team.”

Rosales is not new to the Viera tennis community. He has coached for the past 2½ years in the area.

“I have a personal interest in Viera High,’’ Rosales said. “My son played on the team. And in 2012, I assisted with the boys tennis team during my son’s senior year.”

Rosales is optimistic the Hawks can have a great season.

“I think we have a very strong team this year,” Rosales said. “We have a lot of good players.”

Junior Griffin Lamp will play No. 1 singles, followed by seniors Nico Andrades at No. 2 and Gabriel Gusman at No. 3.

Ben Gust, a junior, will play No. 4 singles. The No. 5 spot will be shared by Zak Sedaros and Joe Malentino. Rahul Ghosh and Ryan Collins are ready for doubles or to play singles if anyone gets injured.

“I want the team to have fun while they are out there,’’ Rosales said. “I want to see them smile.’’

The girls tennis team also has gotten off to a great start. Coached by Shelly Rosseau for a second season, the team brings a strong starting lineup to the courts.

Eve Wasil, a junior, will play No. 1 singles. Senior Amanda Sedaros returns for her fourth and final season for the Hawks. She will play No. 2 singles.

Blakely Duke will play No. 3 singles, with Morgan Bentley in the No. 4 singles slot. Freshmen Stevie Taylor and Elle Lazare will share the No. 5 singles slot.

“Eve is a strong contender for state this year,” Rosseau said. “She is a transfer student from Washington, so we are excited to have her.” There are a number of alternate players on the girls team as well.

“I look forward to seeing Amanda, Eve and the team this year,’’ Rosseau said. “We have some great matches ahead.’’

March is a crucial month for the Hawks as they prepare for the district tournament and the postseason in April.