The Adair County High School tennis team is past the midway point of the season, with the girls posting a 7-3 record and the boys continuing to build experience with a young roster.
Head Coach Wes Stephens said he expected the girls’ team to be competitive this season after returning its top eight players from last year and both girls’ doubles teams advanced to the second round of the regional tournament last year.
“I knew coming into the season that our girls would be pretty strong,” Stephens said. “So far, they’ve played up to expectations, but there is always room to get better.”
The girls have developed a solid eight-player rotation, with younger players improving as the season progresses. Stephens said the team’s depth has been a key factor in its success.
Two seniors have led the way for the Lady Indians. Kinzlee Akin has emerged as one of the top players in the area, recording 12 wins in singles and doubles play. Creedence Wolfgang, a four-year player, has added seven wins this season, using her experience to anchor the lineup.
Adair County’s lineup also includes Kylieanne Akin, Anika Jennings, Ila Loy, Katie Kean, Malanna Burton and Makayla White, all of whom have contributed multiple wins.
Stephens said he expects the girls to be competitive in the coming weeks.
“I expect our girls to have a strong showing in the Heartland Conference and 5th Region tournaments,” he said.
On the boys’ side, the Indians have faced challenges this season and currently hold a 1-8 record. Stephens said a drop in players has impacted the team, with several athletes balancing tennis with other sports.
“We have some boys that are playing other sports and trying to play tennis part time,” Stephens said. “That’s just part of high school sports.”
Despite the record, Stephens said the boys are gaining valuable experience with increased playing time.
Carson Coomer has led the way with three wins in his first season, while Dustin Story and Jonathan Lemke have continued to develop in both singles and doubles competition.
Stephens said he encourages athletes to participate in multiple sports, even if it creates challenges for team numbers.
“I always encourage kids to play as many sports as possible,” he said. “Sharing kids or sometimes losing them to other sports just happens.”
As the season continues, the focus remains on growth for the boys and postseason success for the girls.
