Spring N2 Action
GLEN ROSE REPORTER & YOURGLENROSETX.COM | Thursday, February 27, 2014 | PAGE C7
TENNIS
Serving up a winner New coach Yeager focused on player development Gregger Yeager knows the process to develop Tiger tennis into a strong program won’t be done in a year, but in the meantime the new Glen Rose coach wants his players to maximize their potential. Alvarado dominated the district last year, but Yeager hopes to see his players take a step forward. “I look at our district, and I know Alvarado is a very good program,” Yeager said. “Of the 10 spots to qualify for regionals at district last year, Alvarado took eight, Stephenville took one and our program took one. That’s pretty tough, but one of my first-year objectives is to at least match that. Then, hopefully as we move into the new district, those numbers will rise.” There is much work to be done, and Yeager sees athletes ready to put in the effort. “We have some kids who can really play, and some who are eager to learn the game and excel,” he said. “There is some talent that Coach (Greg) Garrison developed.” While there aren’t many experienced girls’ players on varsity, several of them are
standouts in terms of athleticism. Junior Grace Payne has more match play under her belt than most. “I was impressed to watch Grace play singles in our dual (practice) match (against Whitney),” Yeager said. “She has talent, and it takes someone special to be a strong singles player. It’s all about mental toughness, and I think she’s got what it takes to be a competitor.” Kelsey Potter played last year and is one of the most athletic girls at Glen Rose High. “The athleticism is certainly there with Kelsey,” Yeager said. “She is still relatively new to tennis, but it’s my job to teach her the game. Her ability to cover the court could make her a very strong player.” Kimberlee McCullough returns from last season. “Kimberlee has a pretty solid swing to hit it hard, and she could become a good net player in doubles. She has a good chance to become a strong partner.” Sophomore Olivia Banz joins the program. “Olivia is picking up the game pretty quick,” Yeager said. “The challenge is to make sure she doesn’t take any shortcuts and learn bad habits. She’s a very powerful player, and with that
wingspan she is going to be a strong doubles partner in the future.” Freshman Sophie Bozarth is in the picture. “Sophie is also picking up the game quickly,” the coach said. “She looks like she could do anything our team needs down the road — doubles or singles. As a freshman, I need to make sure she builds a solid foundation of skills so that she can advance in the future.” Freshman Hannah Andrews is also getting her opportunity.
“Hannah is one of several freshmen who have such a great attitude about playing and an eagerness to learn the game,” Yeager said. “She wants to do the best she can, which is such a coachable aspect. I really look forward to working with her and helping her improve over the years. There’s a lot of potential there.” Freshman Grace Morris has worked her way into the mix. “Grace brought a great attitude from day one,” Yeager said. “She’s one of our hardest workers and I’m
happy to have her.” The program’s most accomplished returning player is junior Derek Kramer. He finished fourth in district in boys’ doubles last year. “Derek will be a doubles player, and it requires two talented young men for them to be successful,” Yeager said. “I want to make the right choice about who to put him with. I know he can play, so it’s about getting someone to keep up with him.” Adam Frazier is currently the lone senior in the program.
Grace Payne
Adam Frazier
Alex Cocita
Austin Mullins
Hannah Andrews
Kelsey Potter
Kimberlee McCullough
Derek Kramer
Ethan Krueger
Jason Lattin
Grace Morris
Olivia Banz
Sophie Bozarth
TYE CHANDLER
sports@theglenrosereporter.com
Jayden Reynolds
Tucker Garza
GRR FILE PHOTO
As one of the most athletic players in the program, Alex Cocita will try to use mobility to his advantage.
GRR FILE PHOTO
Grace Payne’s skills are among the most advanced within the girls’ lineup. “Adam has a good ground game, and I’m still deciding if he’ll be stronger in singles or doubles,” Yeager said. “He SEE SWING, C10