SA tennis places fourth in VCC tournament

Published 9:37 am Friday, May 4, 2012

The Southampton Academy tennis team took fourth in the Virginia Commonwealth Conference tournament Tuesday in Williamsburg. Members are, from left, Alex Grizzard, Barclay Gatten, Rebecca Lewis, Megan Drewry, Coach Joann Gatten, Mina Johnson, Kristen Wachsmann and Olivia Fox. -- SUBMITTED

 

WILLIAMSBURG—The Southampton Academy tennis team wrapped up its season by placing fourth Tuesday at the Virginia Commonwealth Conference tournament at the McCormack-Nagelson Tennis Center in Williamsburg.

Barclay Gatten won the No. 1-seed singles match defeating Marie Mullins of Blessed Sacrament Huguenot 8-5. She was also named to the VCC All-Academic Team.

Olivia Fox placed second at the No. 3 seed and Mina Johnson took second at the No. 6 seed.

In doubles, Barclay Gatten and Olivia Fox placed second after losing in the finals to Mullins/Ransome from Blessed Sacrament Huguenot.

SA is the regular season conference runnerup.

“The girls were disappointed in the tournament results, especially after having such a successful season,” said Coach JoAnn Gatten. “I reminded them that the tournament is a one day event and finishing second in the regular season is much more indicative of their efforts. We feel we reached our goal of providing the girls the tools needed to enjoy the game of tennis after their high school tennis season ended.”

“Jack Schwolow, former college player and teaching pro at Kingsmill Resort in Williamsburg, volunteered many hours working on fundamentals and sharing his passion for the game,” Gatten said. “He also worked with the girls on mental toughness and strategies. His contributions are a big reason for our successful season.”