By By ERIKA PICKLES / Niles Daily Star
NILES – With a disappointing finish at the 2006 state finals, the Buchanan tennis program has decided to make a more determined commitment for the 2007 season.
The Bucks, which have dominated the Lakeland Conference for years, advanced to the state tournament and placed 16th last year. Buchanan also posted a perfect 8-0 dual record, claimed its 15th conference title and its 13th regional title. And with the hard work in the off-season, head coach Steve Bender is excited to get the season going.
"Since the first practice in the summer, to the rigorous weight room workouts, this team has worked harder than any team in the past during the off season," Bender said.
Bender, which enters his 19th season with the Bucks, said the tennis program prides itself on overall team depth – and this team has exactly that.
"We have 10 seniors leading our team. For many, this is their third year on the varsity level and they have created some lofty goals; conference champs, regional champs and a top five finish at the state finals," Bender said.
Bender also stated that the team has 12 players whose abilities are not very different.
"Our JV team last year was undefeated and there are many players from that group pushing to crack the top 12. This internal competition will keep us sharp all season," Bender said.
Fighting for singles positions this year will be True Sulier, Harper Sulier, Eric Lentz, Brad Burns, James Whitfield, Tyler Toney and Pable Campillo.
Doubles players will be Mario Bonardi, Taylor Oake, Dillon Bailey, Andrew Scoggin, Josh Niven, Max Gorton, Andy Hartmna, Grayson Oake and Tyler Siebert.
The Bucks' schedule will be a tough one, and includes state powerhouses such as Portage Central, Allegan, Sturgis, Portage Northern, Marshall, St. Joseph and Mattawan.
"By far, this is our most ambitious schedule ever, but this team wanted it and the constant superior competition will help us get better. We wouldn't want it any different," Bender added.
Buchanan's next match will be on Wednesday, April 11 at Dowagiac at 4 p.m.