By Ayza Ali ‘28
Throughout new beginnings and matches that just couldn’t seem to end, Wyoming Seminary’s Girls’ Tennis had a very successful season, with the team demonstrating valuable partnership, dedication, and a competitive spirit. The fall season ended amazingly for the team, when two of the doubles pairings impressively ended in second place.
The team began their hardworking season long before the academic year began, ensuring that they were prepared for the intense matches ahead of them. With a new coach, Coach Fred Hockenbury, the girls had concerns that it would take time for the team to feel comfortable and connected with one another on the courts. However, Coach Hockenbury immediately helped the girls feel at ease, and he helped them become better tennis players each day.
Not long after preseason, the girls already felt prepared for their matches, and proved this after being left undefeated, leading them to the district matches. Despite the success, like all teams, the girls faced difficulties. Some matches were harder than others, lasting two or more hours. However, the girls were able to work through the challenges due to their strong and unwavering teamwork. The girls worked hard everyday to perfect their techniques and keep their competitive spark lit.
While the team remained focused on their goals, they were still able to make memories during practices and matches, making the 2026 season the most memorable one yet. Anisa Mohyuddin ‘27 says “My favorite memory from this year’s tennis season was definitely our senior night! The team did such a great job putting it together and we had lots of fun celebrating each other. I’m going to miss the team so much and all the memories we’ve made!” This year, the tennis team had a total of six seniors, and it’s safe to say that the team will not be the same without them next year. The team expressed their appreciation of their seniors by giving them personalized gifts on their senior night, creating a special memory for the team to share.
Despite all the wins throughout the season, the performances of the two doubles teams at the semi-finals became the highlight. The results from the match indicated the hard work the girls had put into the season and it gave the team a memorable achievement to celebrate. The two doubles pairings, Kathleen Minella with Katie Zhang and Cece Pons with Elizabeth Weaver, worked with such dedication to their sport, making them most deserving of their success. Kathleen Minella ‘28 says “The win felt like a redemption from last season since my partner and I didn’t make it that far last year. It also felt like a great accomplishment since we had such a hard match before the semis the day before.” Kate and Katie ended in third place, receiving individual bronze medals, and Cece and Lizzy ended in second place, receiving individual silver medals. Combined, they successfully won second place as a team in the semi finals.
With the fall season at a close, the girls tennis team is now able to look back on a strong year of competition and accomplishments. Congratulations to Wyoming Seminary’s girls’ tennis team, and we look forward to seeing your success in the next year!