Boys tennis season update

Aspen High School boys tennis has been having a positive season, despite the uncertainty of the future of fall sports. Out of the nine matches, including the Lowry Bishop Tournament in Grand Junction, the team has won eight matches. In nine matches, Aspen competed against the classic rivalries of Basalt, Steamboat, and Vail.
Eleven varsity players travel to matches – three singles players and four doubles players – and based on each of the individual scores, a composite team score decides the overall winner. As tennis matches are unique in that they fulfill both an individual and team aspect, many of the players have won their personal matches to contribute to the team score. For example, the team’s recent match against Vail was a full sweep, with all seven sub-teams beating Vail.
Though the scores say a lot about the success of the boys’ season, Bryce Cortz-Pearce, the number one doubles player – partnered with Lukee Tralins – believes that the comradery is more valuable.
“Tennis in high school is not so much about competing and winning, although that is a big part, it is more about the memories and fun times you have with your teammates. The bus rides, cheering and practices make it a team sport because we all have fun with each other. It is just like being on any team; everyone’s efforts matter and it is up to you to help the team,” Cortz-Pearce said.
Every fall sport has had to adjust based on the state regulations regarding COVID-19, especially when teams travel and compete. The tennis regulations, administered both by AHS and CHSAA, are as follows: symptom screenings pre-practice and during travel, social distancing with the other team, separate balls for each team, mask on until entry onto the court, and separate rows for seating on the bus. Though there is a shift in the way the season runs, Christian Kelly, the number one singles player, has an optimistic outlook on how to adapt positively.
“At first, I was disappointed that this was the turnout of my senior season. And while there are some team traditions that can’t happen, the virus has presented an opportunity for leadership because everything is so new and different. Overall, it is a good learning experience and the other seniors and I have been able to lead the team through these tough times with our previous knowledge and experiences from past years,” Kelly said.
The team only has the state tournament left but, reflecting on the season, Steve Sand, the head coach, is proud of how the boys adapted to the conditions.
“There are more hoops to jump through before practice and matches, and it does take some extra time and effort, but at least we are getting outside and we are all happy to be playing tennis.” Sand said. “I’m going to miss the six seniors on the team. I have seen them improve and mature over the last four years.”
Based on the turnout of their past matches, the boys should be successful at the state competition, especially because of the bond that they have formed given the circumstances.
“We have been working on some new strategies during practice that are improving our gameplay. I’m really excited to see how far we go this year,” Cortez-Pearce said.