With the season winding down, the GCHS tennis team is finishing strong with junior Ally Byrd, senior Avery McArthur and sophomore Laci Lamb heading to the State Championship on April 14 and 15, racking up impressive wins and showcasing their hard work on the court.

   Byrd and McArthur were district champs for women’s doubles, and Lamb was district runner up for women’s singles. 

   The team is aiming to close out the season on a high note, building on the momentum that has defined their success so far.

   After an even season of wins and losses, the team has grown stronger, learning from both victories and setbacks. Byrd and sophomore Cara Stanfill have both helped their skill grow more and more. “I’ve just been able to hit the ball harder and have a better attitude,” Stanfill said. “We’ve just gotten a lot more practice at it just going through all of our tennis matches and stuff,” Byrd said.

   As they gear up for state, practices have intensified, focusing on consistency, endurance, and strategy. Motivation is key during the long stretches of the season. “So really to keep them motivated I just keep telling them you’ve got to keep going because really what happens is the more you win, the better you are, and the more of the state advancement you’ll get,” said Coach Murray Cowart. The team is eager to compete and prove themselves against top opponents. 

   No matter the outcome, making it to state is an achievement that reflects their dedication and teamwork. With their final matches ahead, the GCHS players are ready to give it their all.