Historically, Chapman tennis has been led by a name like Hollis or Pack. But this season, Jacob Leslie has stepped in and taken over the reins and coach the team with player Zach Martin’s dad also helping out.

“I am excited to help players grow as athletes and have fun in the process of working hard and staying committed,” Leslie stated.

Last season, the team lost in the first round of the 3A playoffs, but this season the goal is to go much further, and it is already looking positive due to Chapman defeating Spartanburg Christian Academy 6-1 on Monday.

The team seemed to work well together and encourage each other. This is very important in establishing synchronization throughout the team.

Leslie believes that working hard in practice will make the games easier.

“If you practice harder than you play, you won’t have to worry about getting tired,” he said.

Speaking of games, the next game on the schedule for the team is the Zaxby’s invitational tournament that is held at Boiling Springs High School and will include many upstate high schools.

After that, the team will face Clinton on the road in the first region match of the season.

The lineup has changed slightly from last year due to the departure of Grant Robinson who has expanded his talents to North Greenville University.

Senior Seth Yep has taken over the top spot and will be followed by Junior Zack Martin, Senior Sergio Camara, Sophomore Bryce Blackwell, and Junior Lane Penley will be the starters for the singles lineup. Doubles will be headlined by Junior Nataivy Yep and 8th-grader Jennings Pruitt.

“The hopes are to have a successful and fun season, and if we work hard and help build each other as players, there is no limit to how far we can go,” Leslie said.