Saxony Lutheran's Maggie Hillin and Abby Haley gain experience at state tennis tourney

Saxony Lutheran's Margaret Hillin and Abigail Haley pose for a photo after receiving their seventh-place medals Saturday at Cooper Tennis Complex in Springfield, Missouri.

Photo courtesy of Saxony Lutheran Athletics

Saxony Lutheran sophomores Maggie Hillin and Abby Haley finished seventh at the Class 1 State Doubles Tournament last weekend in Springfield.

Hillin and Haley both had nerves heading into the weekend but those quickly went away.

“The first games were a little nerve wracking but once we settled in it was really fun and we saw a whole different level of play,” Hillin said. “We played on indoor courts which was new for us.”

Crusaders coach Amy Birk thought the indoor courts were beneficial for the duo despite the fact they had never played on one.

“There was no wind, no sun and no outdoor factors that came into play,” Birk said. “I was super excited about getting to play there and I think they were too, it was just such a different atmosphere and I guess as a player they felt more closed in.”

Haley was grateful for the opportunity to compete in the state tournament.

“It was definitely an eye-opening experience,” Haley said. “Tennis is still really new to me so it was cool to be there. It was just a great experience.”

Hillin felt like the pair made huge strides playing together for their second year.

“We definitely improved a lot from last year,” Hillin said. “The last few weeks of the season especially saw a lot of improvements.”

Birk commended Hillin and Haley for their hard work and leadership.

“These girls are the type of girls that just keep working harder and harder,” Birk said. “They don’t want anyone to beat them at anything. Even in practice they’re pushing themselves to make themselves even better.

“They have been amazing leaders and even as sophomores I had them as my team captains. They’re the kind of athlete I want the others to look up to. They have positive attitudes, they’re hard workers and they’re good christian girls.”

Haley hopes the experience this season can continue to set them up for success down the road.

“I feel like we will have a lot more confidence going into matches,” Haley said. “We want to set a higher goal for ourselves next year.”