Wolves target eighth straight title

Coupeville tennis coach Cliff Horr couldn’t ask for much more in his eighth and final year as the Wolves’ coach.

CHS will bring back seven seniors, including the number one and two finishers from the Northwest A/B last year.

“This may be the strongest returning team I’ve ever had,” Horr said.

If the solid core is able to gel like they did last year, the Wolves will be on their way to an eighth straight league title.

Leading the way at number one singles is Mindy Horr, a three time league champion.

Taniel Lamb, a second place finisher and district tournament participant, will return at number two singles.

Coach Horr feels both are in a solid position to repeat, but he may tweak a few things toward the end of the season, joining his two strongest players as a doubles team.

“It might be our best chance to move anyone through districts,” he said. “That’s kind of tentative right now.”

According to Horr, Coupeville hasn’t advanced anyone through districts to a state tournament since the late 80s.

“It’s been a long time,” he said.

Also returning to this year’s team as key components are Katherine Meyer, Heather Fakkema, Heidi Lee and Julia Mottet.

Horr is leaning toward Meyer and Fakkema playing number one singles, but hadn’t solidified any other positions as of earlier this week.

The number of returning players makes Horr happy, but he is also thrilled at the amount of younger players he had come out. Close to 20 girls tried out Monday.

“I think it’s the most I’ve ever had,” Horr said. “It was a little crowded out there on the courts.”

Even though Horr has announced this will be his final season coaching CHS, he knows the increased numbers can only mean good things for the program.

“It’s a real good thing for building the future,” Horr said.

The Wolves compete in a three-team league with Friday Harbor and Darrington. In addition they will face 3A South Whidbey, 2A Blaine and 2A Lakewood three times each this season, along non-league Tenino once.

“We have a real good schedule this season,” Horr said. “It will be a real good test to play against some of the larger schools.”

Coupeville opens its season at 3:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 22 at home against South Whidbey.

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