Region realignments have put the Copper Hills girls tennis team in a league with some talented new opponents. The Grizzlies are welcoming the challenge. 

Previously competing in Class 6A’s Region 3, Copper Hills is now part of Region 2. The Grizzlies are still facing usual suspects Herriman, Mountain Ridge, Bingham and Riverton. But they now have new region foe Corner Canyon. 

Copper Hills has more depth this season than in years past, as more girls went out for the team. This is a good sign for the program, as the coaches now have more options at both the varsity and junior varsity levels. 

“We have a larger team, and in turn that means less girls get to play on the JV and varsity squad,” assistant coach Kaycee Story said. “But that hasn’t seemed to deter the girls from doing their best every day. In fact, I would say that it has sparked more and more competition with the girls and has made them better altogether in their match play.”

First singles player Paige Pack, a senior, is perhaps the team’s top player. Juniors Annie Elzinga and Gretta Clayton are the first doubles tandem. Story has high hopes for them this season. As a whole, the team excels in the basics of the game.

“The fundamentals I believe are our strongest points in our overall team,” Story said. “I mean, obviously different girls have different styles and knowledges of the game, but collectively they have a very strong understanding of tennis.”

Though Copper Hills has a new region and a new opponent, the goals remain the same. The team has historically fared well in region play and competed respectively in the postseason. Story is optimistic that the same will be true this season. 

“I think this team has the potential to do really well in an especially tough region,” she said. “We have always been competitive and sportsmanlike, and that expectation remains the same.”

This year’s squad had to replace some key players from the 2022 team, meaning there are some new faces and less experienced competitors to plug into the lineups. Still, Story likes the blend of returning starters and newcomers. 

The Grizzlies will compete in region action throughout the season before participating in the state tournament at Liberty Park Sept. 28, 30. To have success this season, Story said a positive attitude and enthusiasm will be critical. 

“Collectively, we need to have a high energy and spirit within the team during practices and matches,” she said. λ