Wabash High School

Varsity vs Maconoquah High School For the 3rd time this season, the Apache Netters faced off against the Braves from Maconaquah High School. The first two matches went to the Apaches, this one followed suit as well. With the stakes being higher with this being round 1 of the IHSAA sectionals, the Apaches again came out on top with a match score of 5-0. At 1 singles, Mattern was able to control the match from the outset. Using his experience and improved decision making, Eli won with a match score of 6-2, 6-0. "I was pleased to see Eli play with poise and confidence. It's always tough to play and beat a player 3 times. Gochenhour, who improved from our early match ups and will be a very good tennis player, started strong with a competitive game score of 2-3, then Eli completely controlled the match to win the next 9 games. He really played well and made good tennis decisions throughout the match." Coach Mattern Cooper Long was able to cruise to a 6-1, 6-0 victory at 2 singles. After being broken in game 1, Cooper then reeled off 12 straight games to seal a point for the Apaches. "Cooper is a very solid player with excellent shot making abilities. Cooper's growth as a player was evident tonight, he stepped up and handily won a match we expect him to win. He is playing with confidence and moving well around the court and can create match up problems for whomever is on the other end of the court." Coach Mattern At 3 singles, Ashton Coffman continued his winning ways taking his match 6-0, 6-0. On display tonight was Ashton's confidence and efficiency. Coffman was the first one off the courts for all teams, starting the Apaches on the path of winning the match. One doubles turned the tables from a loss earlier in the year to Mac. Shepler and Pence won in straight sets with a score of 6-2, 6-2. Mattern shared, "Good to see these two find a way to win and at the same time finish a match in two sets. They have improved as players and in their team play. For us to continue on as a team, we need the doubles teams to find a way to win. Tonight they did just that which is a good sign." Tracy and McKenzie found themselves in a roller coaster of a match. The Wabash 2-dubs team won set 1 with a score of 6-1. The next set played out very differently as Wabash struggled and lost 1-6. After a short break, Tracy and McKenzie reset and won handily in the final and deciding set 6-2. The Apaches continue in the state tournament with a sectional semifinal matchup against Rochester, tomorrow at Peru's Thrush Courts.