The Cotter Boys Varsity Tennis Team has exploded into the competitive scene of MSHSL Tennis with a vengeance this year, looking to reinforce their position as a team since their 14-6 Section 1-A Runner-Up performance last year.

Only losing two of last year’s players to graduation, Matthew Park and Eric Cho, the team is coming back as veterans looking to dominate the state. Prominent members returning this year are Ryan Ortega, who finished in 4th place at last years state tournament, and Tim DeMarais. Both Ortega and DeMarais will be competing in the #1 and #2 spot as singles.

As for the fresh recruits on the tennis squad, Jerry Yang is the aspiring newbie. With DeMarais declaring that he’s “pretty dang good”, the team is looking forward to his progressive season.

The team is aiming high for their accomplishments this year. Confident in his team, head coach Victor Mirasola has high expectations.

“The team’s main goal is to compete for a Section championship and the chance to go to the state tournament.”

This will not be en easy feat for the Cotter team. “Obviously this is a lofty goal with two of the top 8 teams in the state in our section, but hopefully we are able to get to the point where we can compete with those teams and reach that goal,” Mirasola said.

Already beginning their season the team is starting out with good performances. The third doubles Andre Russeau and Logan Spitzer currently hold a 5-0 record. “It isn’t just about our bond as players, it’s about Logan and I forming together, almost like a hive mind, to dominate our opponents,” Russeau said.

The team yet still needs improvement. “We have a strong returning varsity team, who I am pushing to reach their potential… the team is looking to improve on the doubles play and being more aggressive in every aspect of play,” Mirasola said. No doubt having this more aggressive play would benefit the already skilled members of the team.

Senior Jake Renk is also confident.

“Our team is ready, willing, and able. We will descend upon our enemies much like the Iron Curtain in the Cold War. Determined and unmovable.”

In any case, the Boys Varsity Tennis Team is ready to take on the state and are definitely equipped to finish their opponents. With a team full of veterans and new potential, there’s no doubt that they can take on a challenge.