Highland's boys tennis team kicked off the season last Friday in the best possible way - they beat The Covenant School of Charlottesville, reigning DII state champs six years running and the team that knocked them out of the state semis last year.

On a cold, windy day, not suited to tennis, Highland pulled off a tremendous win against a team that is both deep and highly experienced (Covenant recorded wins over both Collegiate School of Richmond and Woodberry Forest last year).

Highland knew they had one advantage against a team that was returning all but one of its starting players. Jack Thomas, Covenant's former no. 1 player, now plays for Highland.

Thomas transferred to Highland as a senior this year enabling him to practice in Northern VA as he began recruiting to play DI college tennis; he has since committed to Wofford College. His practice partner happens to be Adam Fenton, Highland's no. 1 player last year.

The two have been best friends since they met at a USTA tournament when they were 12 years old. They often compete together as doubles partners and travel frequently between their homes to play tennis together. They will take turns at the no. 1 spot this year. Fenton has committed to Elon University.

Excitement began to build last year for Highland's team as Fenton (undefeated in his high school singles career) transferred there and joined the team. The Hawks went undefeated in their conference and made it to the semis of the state tournament before being ousted by Covenant.

Even with players no. 3 through 6 bumping down a spot with the addition of Thomas, a win on Friday was uncertain. In possibly the key match, Rich Gerhardt, no. 3, had a rematch with Covenant's William Rose. Gerhardt, who lost to Rose in states last year, played a thoughtful, controlled match despite tough conditions and secured the first win.

Fenton than closed out the no. 2 match with a solid win against Matthew Rose and Thomas followed suit with a win on court 1 against Sam Adamson. Tim Bartz won handily at no. 6, giving Highland a strong 4-1 advantage going into doubles.

Ward Van De Water, a new addition to the team, gave an impressive performance at no. 4 singles and in doubles competition with new member Hampton Massey despite losses in both. Jonathan Finley showed great improvement in the no. 5 spot.

"I have high expectations for the team this season", said Coach Paola Ricetti. "It is the most talented team I have had, ever. The top three are tournament players and 4, 5 and 6 are very athletic with a lot of promise. What a great start with a BIG win. We hope for good weather so we can practice!"

In doubles play, Covenant's no. 1 team proved too steady for Thomas and Gerhardt on the day, but Fenton and Bartz played a solid match toppling William Rose and Kevin Coleman for the victory. Covenant took both the no. 3 and 4 doubles in close matches.