LAST SEASON: The Trojans won four dual matches and finished third in the O-K Silver conference standings. The most exciting part of the season was the performance of sophomore Josalynn Nowicki, who became a dominant player at No. 1 singles, winning individual championships at the Greater Muskegon Athletic Association Tournament and the O-K Silver tournament, finishing second in Division 1 regionals and qualifying for the state finals.

LOTS OF RETURNING STARTERS: The Trojans will have their top two singles players back. Nowicki, now a junior, will return at No. 1 singles and could have a really exciting season. Junior Emma Fecher is also back at No. 2 singles with a lot of varsity experience under her belt. Six of eight doubles starters are also returning from last year – seniors Rylee Rufener, Lena Saffell, Abby Poort and Jordan Smith, junior Cara Hooker and sophomore Brystol Tenhove. Rufener and Saffell were partners last year at No. 1 doubles while Hooker and Tenhove were partners at No. 3 doubles. Sophomore Journey Rufener also returns from last year’s squad. A few of last year’s doubles players could end up playing in the singles lineup.

LOTS OF NEW FACES, TOO: The Trojans have 13 new players vying for available spots in the lineup. Juniors Ava Robinson, Addison Bordeaux and Kaitlyn Tenbrink and sophomore Jayla Pryslek are strong candidates to find playing time right away, particularly in the doubles flights. Other developing youngsters are sophomores Willlow Phipps, Elainah Pringle, Avrynn Twa, Isabelle Michaels, Gracie Holderman and Bri Grant, along with freshmen Leah Gates and Grace Jensen.

TEAM STRENGTHS: Experience, leadership and roster depth will be factors in Fruitport’s favor this season. The Trojans also have a versatile roster, with quite a few players who function well in singles or doubles and know how to make the necessary adjustments.

FIRST COMPETITION: Saturday at Forest Hills Eastern.

COACH QUOTE: “We are excited to get our season started as we look forward to the competition and rigors of a season in order to grow our tennis game and grow as individuals.” – Brad Busscher