Coming off yesterday's great victory, we were excited to have the chance to close out the week with another good performance. Today's opponent was Spring Lake Park. Not exactly a historic tennis powerhouse, but all smaller schools bring their 'A' game against Lake Coference teams.
With Jeremy Steinman out of town this weekend, we altered the lineup again today. Singles: Ryan, myself, Manny, Kenny. Doubles: Brandon/Rust, Andy Novak/Zach Miller, Andy Harris/Clay.
Ryan and I told the team in our pre-match pep talk that we needed to really attack, and not hope that the match would be handed to us. Some players seemed to take that mentality, others got off to a slow start.
Ryan, Manny, and I all won our first sets pretty quickly, as did #1 and #2 doubles. However, Kenny lost his first before I won mine, and #3 dubs was locked in a tight set. Our top two doubles teams finished first, followed by Manny, myself, and then Ryan.
It was obvious watching Kenny that he hadn't played a singles match in a while. He's practiced with us a little bit, but a match is very different. He actually didn't play too badly, but he got down on himself too quickly and lost in straight sets.
#3 doubes fought to a 7-5 first set win, and won their second comprehensively.
Final score: Hopkins 6, Spring Lake Park 1.
Coach Novak gave us the day off tomorrow, which I definitely welcomed after my three-hour marathon win yesterday. We've got four matches in a row next week, starting with St. Louis Park on Monday, followed by Wayzata, Mounds View, and Eden Prairie.
Until then,
Michael
Friday, April 29, 2011
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Hopkins at Minneapolis South ("The Battle")
Wow. Whether it be rain-soaked courts, three-hour matches, or coaches' tempers flaring at each other, today's match had it all.
It was a blustery day, and when we arrived at Powderhorn Park, the courts were wet enough that Coach Novak and South's coach were trying to plan another date to play. In the end, we couldn't find another day to play, so we decided to wait it out. The courts did dry, and we started around 4:15. However, the park only has five courts, meaning that #4 singles (Andy Harris) and #3 doubles (Jeremy Steinman/Clay Thompson) had to wait until other matches finished in order to start.
There is no doubt that South is a very good team. They eliminated us from the section tournament (in the semi-finals) last year. But, they don't have the greatest reputation in high school tennis. Apart from a history of iffy lineups (playing weaker players higher up in order to win at lower positions), South is very loud on the court. Now, there is absolutely nothing wrong with cheering, and I encourage it. After all, high school tennis is a team sport. This being said, the level of noise the South players produce is borderline obnoxious. Note: this may be my opinion, but it is shared by a majority of the Minnesota high school tennis community.
Now, to today's match. Due to Kenny's band concert, and some other adjustments, our lineup was a little different today. #1-4 singles: Ryan, myself, Manny, Andy Harris. #1 doubles: Brandon Rabinowitz/Andrew Rust, #2: Zach Miller/Andy Novak, #3: Jeremy Steinman/Clay Thompson (Clay's first varsity match).
Initially, all five matches were tight, except for Manny's 6-0 first set. Both Ryan and I went to first set tiebreaks: Ryan lost, I won. #1 doubles lost their first and #2 won theirs. Again, #4 singles and #3 doubles had to wait.
As the match went on, the weather got a little nicer, and the matches became more intense. Ryan and I had tried to prepare the team for this match, we knew exactly what to expect. The team seemed to take a little while to find a groove, but we got moving in our second sets. #1 dubs won their second set, Manny's opponent tried to stage a comeback, but Manny won in straight sets, and #2 dubs closed out their match. Hopkins 2, South 0.
As Andy and #3 doubles began to warm up, Ryan and I were locked in tight matches. Ryan played Noah Sprinkel, and I played Noah's brother, Jesse. Ryan won his second set to push his match to a third and final set. My set lasted longer, and after having five or six (don't know exactly) match points on Jesse's serve at 5-4, I ended up losing the set in a tiebreak, 8-6. I've got to give a ton of credit to Jesse, every match point I had, he would come up with incredibly clutch shots.
Andy Harris lost to South's #4 in a tight match. Although he started over an hour after us, Andy was off the court before Ryan or I finished. Just after Andy lost, #1 doubles lost in their third set. Hopkins 2, South 2.
I try not to pay too much attention to matches other than my own, but I must admit that I'm usually well aware of what is going on with the team. Ryan was on the court next to mine, and I was confident that he would close out his match in a third set. Sure enough, he took it, 6-3.
Meanwhile, I still had a match to play. I got an early break in the set, but at 4-3, I was broken back to even the set at 4-4. I managed to break him back, and had a chance to serve for the match. I told myself that I was annoyed with hitting ground strokes, so I decided to serve-and-volley on all of my points. Four points later, I had won the set 6-4. With only #3 doubles remaining, the score was Hopkins 4, South 2.
Shortly after finishing, I happened to check the time on my phone: 7:19. Three hours. Not very quick, but a win's a win. Unfortunately, in light of my band concert tonight, I (and Andy Harris) had to leave soon after my own match, but I did see #3 doubles battle back from a one-set deficit to win the second. They ended up losing the match, but Jeremy and Clay they got some invaluable experience today.
I hate to end on a bad note, but I must mention the altercation between coaches during the match. Coach Novak apparently said something to my opponent after he did made a comment to Novak. The South coach found out, and while my match was going on, their argument escalated. I don't know all of the details, but I'm sure it was a case of overreaction from both sides.
Final score: Hopkins 4, Minneapolis South 3.
After today's great win, we've got to regroup for tomorrow's home match against Spring Lake Park.
Until then,
Michael
It was a blustery day, and when we arrived at Powderhorn Park, the courts were wet enough that Coach Novak and South's coach were trying to plan another date to play. In the end, we couldn't find another day to play, so we decided to wait it out. The courts did dry, and we started around 4:15. However, the park only has five courts, meaning that #4 singles (Andy Harris) and #3 doubles (Jeremy Steinman/Clay Thompson) had to wait until other matches finished in order to start.
There is no doubt that South is a very good team. They eliminated us from the section tournament (in the semi-finals) last year. But, they don't have the greatest reputation in high school tennis. Apart from a history of iffy lineups (playing weaker players higher up in order to win at lower positions), South is very loud on the court. Now, there is absolutely nothing wrong with cheering, and I encourage it. After all, high school tennis is a team sport. This being said, the level of noise the South players produce is borderline obnoxious. Note: this may be my opinion, but it is shared by a majority of the Minnesota high school tennis community.
Now, to today's match. Due to Kenny's band concert, and some other adjustments, our lineup was a little different today. #1-4 singles: Ryan, myself, Manny, Andy Harris. #1 doubles: Brandon Rabinowitz/Andrew Rust, #2: Zach Miller/Andy Novak, #3: Jeremy Steinman/Clay Thompson (Clay's first varsity match).
Initially, all five matches were tight, except for Manny's 6-0 first set. Both Ryan and I went to first set tiebreaks: Ryan lost, I won. #1 doubles lost their first and #2 won theirs. Again, #4 singles and #3 doubles had to wait.
As the match went on, the weather got a little nicer, and the matches became more intense. Ryan and I had tried to prepare the team for this match, we knew exactly what to expect. The team seemed to take a little while to find a groove, but we got moving in our second sets. #1 dubs won their second set, Manny's opponent tried to stage a comeback, but Manny won in straight sets, and #2 dubs closed out their match. Hopkins 2, South 0.
As Andy and #3 doubles began to warm up, Ryan and I were locked in tight matches. Ryan played Noah Sprinkel, and I played Noah's brother, Jesse. Ryan won his second set to push his match to a third and final set. My set lasted longer, and after having five or six (don't know exactly) match points on Jesse's serve at 5-4, I ended up losing the set in a tiebreak, 8-6. I've got to give a ton of credit to Jesse, every match point I had, he would come up with incredibly clutch shots.
Andy Harris lost to South's #4 in a tight match. Although he started over an hour after us, Andy was off the court before Ryan or I finished. Just after Andy lost, #1 doubles lost in their third set. Hopkins 2, South 2.
I try not to pay too much attention to matches other than my own, but I must admit that I'm usually well aware of what is going on with the team. Ryan was on the court next to mine, and I was confident that he would close out his match in a third set. Sure enough, he took it, 6-3.
Meanwhile, I still had a match to play. I got an early break in the set, but at 4-3, I was broken back to even the set at 4-4. I managed to break him back, and had a chance to serve for the match. I told myself that I was annoyed with hitting ground strokes, so I decided to serve-and-volley on all of my points. Four points later, I had won the set 6-4. With only #3 doubles remaining, the score was Hopkins 4, South 2.
Shortly after finishing, I happened to check the time on my phone: 7:19. Three hours. Not very quick, but a win's a win. Unfortunately, in light of my band concert tonight, I (and Andy Harris) had to leave soon after my own match, but I did see #3 doubles battle back from a one-set deficit to win the second. They ended up losing the match, but Jeremy and Clay they got some invaluable experience today.
I hate to end on a bad note, but I must mention the altercation between coaches during the match. Coach Novak apparently said something to my opponent after he did made a comment to Novak. The South coach found out, and while my match was going on, their argument escalated. I don't know all of the details, but I'm sure it was a case of overreaction from both sides.
Final score: Hopkins 4, Minneapolis South 3.
After today's great win, we've got to regroup for tomorrow's home match against Spring Lake Park.
Until then,
Michael
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Hopkins v Minnetonka (Finally!)
After a true rainstorm postponed our match against Eden Prairie yesterday, we had another tough Lake Conference matchup against Minnetonka today.
To be honest, I was worried going into today's match. I know every other team is in the same boat as us, but we hadn't played a match for a few weeks, and our indoor practice facility is far less than ideal. That being said, I was so excited to see our team, especially doubles guys, come out focused, intense, and ready to play.
Jeremy Steinman played 14 singles today, and fought to the end, but his match was the first over, and it was a win for Tonka. But just after he finished, #2 doubles (Zach Miller/Andy Novak), who I could see through the fence behind my court, won comprehensively.
Less than an hour gone, Hopkins 1, Minnetonka 1.
Then, #1 dubs (Brandon Rabinowitz/Andrew Rust) closed out their match, putting us in the lead. The next match done was my own. I felt that I was playing extremely well during the first set, and won it 6-2. The second was much tougher, as my opponent battled hard, but I managed to finish it off, 6-4.
Earlier in the week, Coach Novak mentioned that the Star Tribune had contacted him about his story on the ridiculous toughness and depth of Lake Conference tennis. Normally, I wouldn't really care (although in no way will say that I don't "read the headlines." I love when our team gets a little press.) but Novak mentioned that the reporter told him something interesting: the Minnetonka coach told the reporter that he didn't believe his #3 singles player would lose a match all season
Obviously, the coach was not aware of Manfred Barrios. Just after I finished, Manny took down Tonka's #3, 6-1, 6-4. Now the wins were rolling in: #3 doubles (Andy Harris/Kenny Novak) came away victorious, our fifth win of the day.
Now, the only match left was Ryan. His opponent today was Michael Tebon, a great player that is fun to watch because of his serve-and-volley style that is sadly now hard to find. Ryan took a little while to find a rhythm, but dug deep and won the first set in a tiebreaker, 7-6(7-5 in the breaker). I thoght that the second set would be just as close, but Ryan played steady (as always) and Tebon's confidence seemed to drop just a little bit after losing the close set. Ryan took advantage, and won the second set, 6-1.
Final score: Hopkins 6, Minnetonka 1.
Today's win was great, but we need to bring the same level of intensity and focus to tomorrow's match against Minneapolis South. It's our first away match of the year, and South is the team that beat us in the section tournament last year. They are very strong again this year, so it should be a good one.
Until then,
Michael
To be honest, I was worried going into today's match. I know every other team is in the same boat as us, but we hadn't played a match for a few weeks, and our indoor practice facility is far less than ideal. That being said, I was so excited to see our team, especially doubles guys, come out focused, intense, and ready to play.
Jeremy Steinman played 14 singles today, and fought to the end, but his match was the first over, and it was a win for Tonka. But just after he finished, #2 doubles (Zach Miller/Andy Novak), who I could see through the fence behind my court, won comprehensively.
Less than an hour gone, Hopkins 1, Minnetonka 1.
Then, #1 dubs (Brandon Rabinowitz/Andrew Rust) closed out their match, putting us in the lead. The next match done was my own. I felt that I was playing extremely well during the first set, and won it 6-2. The second was much tougher, as my opponent battled hard, but I managed to finish it off, 6-4.
Earlier in the week, Coach Novak mentioned that the Star Tribune had contacted him about his story on the ridiculous toughness and depth of Lake Conference tennis. Normally, I wouldn't really care (although in no way will say that I don't "read the headlines." I love when our team gets a little press.) but Novak mentioned that the reporter told him something interesting: the Minnetonka coach told the reporter that he didn't believe his #3 singles player would lose a match all season
Obviously, the coach was not aware of Manfred Barrios. Just after I finished, Manny took down Tonka's #3, 6-1, 6-4. Now the wins were rolling in: #3 doubles (Andy Harris/Kenny Novak) came away victorious, our fifth win of the day.
Now, the only match left was Ryan. His opponent today was Michael Tebon, a great player that is fun to watch because of his serve-and-volley style that is sadly now hard to find. Ryan took a little while to find a rhythm, but dug deep and won the first set in a tiebreaker, 7-6(7-5 in the breaker). I thoght that the second set would be just as close, but Ryan played steady (as always) and Tebon's confidence seemed to drop just a little bit after losing the close set. Ryan took advantage, and won the second set, 6-1.
Final score: Hopkins 6, Minnetonka 1.
Today's win was great, but we need to bring the same level of intensity and focus to tomorrow's match against Minneapolis South. It's our first away match of the year, and South is the team that beat us in the section tournament last year. They are very strong again this year, so it should be a good one.
Until then,
Michael
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Big Week Ahead
Happy Easter! Once again, I have to play meteorologist: our scrimmage against Mounds View that was scheduled for last Friday was cancelled.
Personally, this was disappointing, because I may have had the chance to play against Mounds View's Wyatt Mccoy, who won the state singles title as an eighth grader and was a finalist as a freshman. He then took his next two years playing tournaments around the country, making him ineligible for high school tennis. He earned himself a tennis scholarship to the University of Notre Dame, and has now returned for his senior season. To beat the best, you must play the best, no?
Anyway, this upcoming week is chock-full of tough matches. Practice on Monday, followed by four matches in a row: Eden Prairie (defending state champions, conference foe), Minnetonka (a good top-ranked team made great by offseason transfers, conference foe), Minneapolis South (beat us in section semi-finals last year), and Spring Lake Park to round out the week.
I'll be posting after each match, so stay tuned!
Until then,
Michael
Personally, this was disappointing, because I may have had the chance to play against Mounds View's Wyatt Mccoy, who won the state singles title as an eighth grader and was a finalist as a freshman. He then took his next two years playing tournaments around the country, making him ineligible for high school tennis. He earned himself a tennis scholarship to the University of Notre Dame, and has now returned for his senior season. To beat the best, you must play the best, no?
Anyway, this upcoming week is chock-full of tough matches. Practice on Monday, followed by four matches in a row: Eden Prairie (defending state champions, conference foe), Minnetonka (a good top-ranked team made great by offseason transfers, conference foe), Minneapolis South (beat us in section semi-finals last year), and Spring Lake Park to round out the week.
I'll be posting after each match, so stay tuned!
Until then,
Michael
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Not Again!
Minnesotans tend to be optimistic about the weather. Yes, snow did accumulate overnight and continued into the morning, but all seemed confident that the snow would melt by the afternoon. All except for the powers-that-be at Benilde St. Margaret's, that is.
Coach Novak was notified before noon today that our match was postponed to a later date. Now I'm sure that the Benilde players wanted to play the match today, but this was obviously not the consensus among the adults.
Yes, it was under forty-five degrees today, but the wind was minimal and the conditions would have been more than fine to play a match.
None of us are mad, we just want to play a match! However, we were more than happy to get another day of practice in (outside, I might add.)
Another day of practice tomorrow, before a "scrimmage" against Mounds View on Friday. Notice the quotations. I plan on asking the MV coach a few questions on Friday, and I'll be sure to tell the story after the match.
Until then,
Michael
Coach Novak was notified before noon today that our match was postponed to a later date. Now I'm sure that the Benilde players wanted to play the match today, but this was obviously not the consensus among the adults.
Yes, it was under forty-five degrees today, but the wind was minimal and the conditions would have been more than fine to play a match.
None of us are mad, we just want to play a match! However, we were more than happy to get another day of practice in (outside, I might add.)
Another day of practice tomorrow, before a "scrimmage" against Mounds View on Friday. Notice the quotations. I plan on asking the MV coach a few questions on Friday, and I'll be sure to tell the story after the match.
Until then,
Michael
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
So Much for MN Tennis
Anyone that has played high school tennis in Minnesota can tell you that any day without wind or precipitation is perfect for playing tennis. Today's temperature hovered around 46.
I am fortunate enough to have a window in my third block classroom and saw neither wind nor precipitation. However, on my way back from lunch, I ran into Coach Novak in the hallway. He told me that Minnetonka wanted to cancel.
So disappointing!! Once we got moving, I'm sure that shorts and a t-shirt would have sufficed during today's match. It's okay, though, we had a pretty good day of practice, and we're ready for Benilde tomorrow. This will be our third match against a private school, again at home.
I realized today that I neglected to wish everyone a Happy Passover, or פסח שמח (Pesach sameach). Tonight is the second night of the eight-day Jewish holiday. Over the next week, I (along with all other Jews)won't be eating leavened bread (cookies, crackers, cereal, etc.) so I may have to increase my daily banana intake to three, instead of two. I love my bananas!
Hopefully the snow stays away and our match will be on tomorrow.
Until then,
Michael
I am fortunate enough to have a window in my third block classroom and saw neither wind nor precipitation. However, on my way back from lunch, I ran into Coach Novak in the hallway. He told me that Minnetonka wanted to cancel.
So disappointing!! Once we got moving, I'm sure that shorts and a t-shirt would have sufficed during today's match. It's okay, though, we had a pretty good day of practice, and we're ready for Benilde tomorrow. This will be our third match against a private school, again at home.
I realized today that I neglected to wish everyone a Happy Passover, or פסח שמח (Pesach sameach). Tonight is the second night of the eight-day Jewish holiday. Over the next week, I (along with all other Jews)won't be eating leavened bread (cookies, crackers, cereal, etc.) so I may have to increase my daily banana intake to three, instead of two. I love my bananas!
Hopefully the snow stays away and our match will be on tomorrow.
Until then,
Michael
Monday, April 18, 2011
Happy Patriots' Day!
Good afternoon everyone,
I apologize for my weekend hiatus. I had matters to attend to (asking a female to prom and watching endless soccer on television). To honor my family's Boston roots, I would like to wish everyone a wonderful Patriots' day: the holiday in Massachusetts that is celebrating by the running of the Boston marathon and a morning Red Sox game.
Our scheduled match against Spring Lake Park on Friday was postponed due to terrible weather. Driving on Friday night made me think that it was still winter. Thankfully, the snow melted by Sunday afternoon.
The weather is looking ominous all week, but Coach Novak mentioned to me at school today that he will be talking to the Minnetonka coach and we may try to play our match indoors tomorrow.
This week's schedule:
Tuesday, April 19: Hopkins v Minnetonka
Wednesday, April 20: Hopkins v Benilde St. Margaret's
Friday, April 22: Mounds View v Hopkins
NOTE: Per soccer games, the home team is always listed first.
I'll be back tomorrow with the results of the match against Minnetonka, our first Lake Conference match and a big test, especially for our singles players.
Until then,
Michael
I apologize for my weekend hiatus. I had matters to attend to (asking a female to prom and watching endless soccer on television). To honor my family's Boston roots, I would like to wish everyone a wonderful Patriots' day: the holiday in Massachusetts that is celebrating by the running of the Boston marathon and a morning Red Sox game.
Our scheduled match against Spring Lake Park on Friday was postponed due to terrible weather. Driving on Friday night made me think that it was still winter. Thankfully, the snow melted by Sunday afternoon.
The weather is looking ominous all week, but Coach Novak mentioned to me at school today that he will be talking to the Minnetonka coach and we may try to play our match indoors tomorrow.
This week's schedule:
Tuesday, April 19: Hopkins v Minnetonka
Wednesday, April 20: Hopkins v Benilde St. Margaret's
Friday, April 22: Mounds View v Hopkins
NOTE: Per soccer games, the home team is always listed first.
I'll be back tomorrow with the results of the match against Minnetonka, our first Lake Conference match and a big test, especially for our singles players.
Until then,
Michael
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Hopkins v Blake
The undefeated season survives another day! Today's match was a true battle, we came through with a 4-3 win. Big ups to #3 doubles (Kenny Novak/Andy Harris), who, with the team's match on the line, won their match 4-6, 6-1, 6-3.
Like Coach Novak said to us after the match, even if we had lost, there were many positives to take from today. What seemed uncertain at the beginning of our year has turned into our strength: #2 (Brandon Rabinowitz/Andrew Rust) and #3 doubles took charge and won their matches. Despite their loss, #1 doubles (Zach Miller, Andy Novak) also played very well.
After being the first one off the court yesterday, I was feeling good coming into my own match today. Playing #2 singles again, I was pretty content with my performance, and thought I fought well, but I lost 2-6, 3-6. I think I've found the reason for my defeat: I forgot my high socks! Like every pro tennis player (except Mardy Fish, of Edina) that wears high socks, I don't remember the last time I played with low-cut socks! I'm just kidding, I've got to give credit to Kai Skallerud, my opponent today, who thoroughly deserved to win.
It was tough for me to see Jeremy Steinman, playing his first varsity singles match at #4, put in a great effort, but lost his match pretty handily. Before I finished, I saw #2 doubles come away victorious and #1 fall short, so after my match ended, the score was: Blake 3, Hopkins 1.
Just after I finished, Ryan, playing #1 singles, finished off his match in straight sets, doubling our team's score. Now, with just Manfred (#4 singles) and #3 doubles remaining, we needed both matches to earn a team victory. Both teams were crowded around the fence by the doubles, but everyone was keeping an eye on the singles match. After winning his first set, Manny was in a second-set deadlock. Up 4-3 and serving, he was broken (lost the game while serving) and ended up going down 5-4. But he got the break back, and was back on top, 6-5, at the next changeover.
Meanwhile, #3 doubles, had won their second set 6-1 after dropping the first 4-6. Now in the third, the match was dead even at 3-3 in the set. Just as they earned a break point in the seventh game of the set, Manny let out a big "LET'S GO!!" meaning that we had just tied the team's match at 3-3.
Andy and Kenny capitalized on the break point and went into the changeover up 4-3. After a few words of wisdom from Coach Novak, they went on to hold Kenny's serve and break to win the match. Final score: Hopkins 4, Blake 3.
After taking down the second-ranked team in state yesterday, we followed it up with a defeat of the sixth-ranked squad.
Spring Lake Park on Friday, again at home. It's supposed to snow, but hopefully that stays away and we have another beautiful day for tennis.
Until then,
Michael
Like Coach Novak said to us after the match, even if we had lost, there were many positives to take from today. What seemed uncertain at the beginning of our year has turned into our strength: #2 (Brandon Rabinowitz/Andrew Rust) and #3 doubles took charge and won their matches. Despite their loss, #1 doubles (Zach Miller, Andy Novak) also played very well.
After being the first one off the court yesterday, I was feeling good coming into my own match today. Playing #2 singles again, I was pretty content with my performance, and thought I fought well, but I lost 2-6, 3-6. I think I've found the reason for my defeat: I forgot my high socks! Like every pro tennis player (except Mardy Fish, of Edina) that wears high socks, I don't remember the last time I played with low-cut socks! I'm just kidding, I've got to give credit to Kai Skallerud, my opponent today, who thoroughly deserved to win.
It was tough for me to see Jeremy Steinman, playing his first varsity singles match at #4, put in a great effort, but lost his match pretty handily. Before I finished, I saw #2 doubles come away victorious and #1 fall short, so after my match ended, the score was: Blake 3, Hopkins 1.
Just after I finished, Ryan, playing #1 singles, finished off his match in straight sets, doubling our team's score. Now, with just Manfred (#4 singles) and #3 doubles remaining, we needed both matches to earn a team victory. Both teams were crowded around the fence by the doubles, but everyone was keeping an eye on the singles match. After winning his first set, Manny was in a second-set deadlock. Up 4-3 and serving, he was broken (lost the game while serving) and ended up going down 5-4. But he got the break back, and was back on top, 6-5, at the next changeover.
Meanwhile, #3 doubles, had won their second set 6-1 after dropping the first 4-6. Now in the third, the match was dead even at 3-3 in the set. Just as they earned a break point in the seventh game of the set, Manny let out a big "LET'S GO!!" meaning that we had just tied the team's match at 3-3.
Andy and Kenny capitalized on the break point and went into the changeover up 4-3. After a few words of wisdom from Coach Novak, they went on to hold Kenny's serve and break to win the match. Final score: Hopkins 4, Blake 3.
After taking down the second-ranked team in state yesterday, we followed it up with a defeat of the sixth-ranked squad.
Spring Lake Park on Friday, again at home. It's supposed to snow, but hopefully that stays away and we have another beautiful day for tennis.
Until then,
Michael
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Hopkins v Breck
Not a bad way to start the season! We prevailed today with a 5-2 win over Breck, who, according to the Star Tribune, was the pre-season second-ranked team in the state.
Coach Novak had been stressing the UNimportance of this match, something that I definitely understand, but find it difficult to express. He wants us to realize that we are practicing for the end of the season, for the section tournament.
That being said, we knew this match was a great opportunity to jump-start our season. Personally, this was my first time playing singles in high school in two years, after playing #1 doubles all of last year.
Let me take a minute to explain how high school tennis works, for those who aren't familiar with the system. For each team match, a lineup of ten players is selected. Four players play singles, the top player playing #1 singles, down to #4. The other six players make up three doubles teams, from #1 doubles to #3. Each individual match is worth one point for the team's score. Therefore, every match is out of seven points, and a team must win four matches to earn a team win.
Now back to today. We knew our singles lineup would be strong, with Ryan at #1, followed by myself, Manny, and Andy Harris. We were confident in doubles too, but it's always tricky at the beginning of a season when everyone is trying to get accustomed to new partners.
Tennis is an individual sport, but you wouldn't know it if you came to a high school match. Just as matches begin to start, everyone is cheering on their teammates across the courts. During my matches, I obviously try to focus on my own match as much as possible, but I am usually aware of how my teammates are doing.
My match actually finished first; I won 6-1,6-1. Definitely a great start to my personal season. But it's all about the team. A parent actually said to me after I told her my result, "great, so you can relax now!" Quite the opposite, in fact. I was happy to have done my part, but now we needed to win three more matches to earn a team win, and the other matches are pretty much out of my control.
When I got off the court, I realized that everyone, except for Andy at #4, had won their opening sets. Manny was the next to come off, and it was good to see him and his opponent talking casually after Manny beat him. I like to say (actually came from Andre Agassi) that tennis is like boxing, where the mental combat replaces the physical combat.
In the meantime, all three doubles teams lost their second sets, and Andy won his, meaning we would have four matches heading to third and deciding sets. Ryan kept on battling and came back from 3-0 down in the second to win the set in a tiebreaker. Match score: Hopkins 3, Breck 0.
The score would seem to indicate our control of the match, but with all four remaining matches in third sets, we could lose, just as likely as winning 7-0. #3 doubles, Kenny Novak and Jeremy Steinman, went down 3-0 early in the third set, but fought back well to win and clinch the match for us. #2 (Brandon Rabinowitz, Andy Novak) won shortly afterwards, bringing the team score to Hopkins 5, Breck 0.
Andy Harris and #1 doubles (Zach Miller, Andrew Rust) continued to fight, but came up just short, both falling in their third sets. Final score: Hopkins 5, Breck 2.
As Coach Novak continues to tell us, results do not matter at this point in the season, but it was great to get this first win, especially with the doubles teams playing well and gaining some confidence. We've got a big test tomorrow, against another local private school: Blake.
Until then,
Michael
Coach Novak had been stressing the UNimportance of this match, something that I definitely understand, but find it difficult to express. He wants us to realize that we are practicing for the end of the season, for the section tournament.
That being said, we knew this match was a great opportunity to jump-start our season. Personally, this was my first time playing singles in high school in two years, after playing #1 doubles all of last year.
Let me take a minute to explain how high school tennis works, for those who aren't familiar with the system. For each team match, a lineup of ten players is selected. Four players play singles, the top player playing #1 singles, down to #4. The other six players make up three doubles teams, from #1 doubles to #3. Each individual match is worth one point for the team's score. Therefore, every match is out of seven points, and a team must win four matches to earn a team win.
Now back to today. We knew our singles lineup would be strong, with Ryan at #1, followed by myself, Manny, and Andy Harris. We were confident in doubles too, but it's always tricky at the beginning of a season when everyone is trying to get accustomed to new partners.
Tennis is an individual sport, but you wouldn't know it if you came to a high school match. Just as matches begin to start, everyone is cheering on their teammates across the courts. During my matches, I obviously try to focus on my own match as much as possible, but I am usually aware of how my teammates are doing.
My match actually finished first; I won 6-1,6-1. Definitely a great start to my personal season. But it's all about the team. A parent actually said to me after I told her my result, "great, so you can relax now!" Quite the opposite, in fact. I was happy to have done my part, but now we needed to win three more matches to earn a team win, and the other matches are pretty much out of my control.
When I got off the court, I realized that everyone, except for Andy at #4, had won their opening sets. Manny was the next to come off, and it was good to see him and his opponent talking casually after Manny beat him. I like to say (actually came from Andre Agassi) that tennis is like boxing, where the mental combat replaces the physical combat.
In the meantime, all three doubles teams lost their second sets, and Andy won his, meaning we would have four matches heading to third and deciding sets. Ryan kept on battling and came back from 3-0 down in the second to win the set in a tiebreaker. Match score: Hopkins 3, Breck 0.
The score would seem to indicate our control of the match, but with all four remaining matches in third sets, we could lose, just as likely as winning 7-0. #3 doubles, Kenny Novak and Jeremy Steinman, went down 3-0 early in the third set, but fought back well to win and clinch the match for us. #2 (Brandon Rabinowitz, Andy Novak) won shortly afterwards, bringing the team score to Hopkins 5, Breck 0.
Andy Harris and #1 doubles (Zach Miller, Andrew Rust) continued to fight, but came up just short, both falling in their third sets. Final score: Hopkins 5, Breck 2.
As Coach Novak continues to tell us, results do not matter at this point in the season, but it was great to get this first win, especially with the doubles teams playing well and gaining some confidence. We've got a big test tomorrow, against another local private school: Blake.
Until then,
Michael
Welcome!
Hello everyone, and welcome to my blog about the Hopkins Royals Boys' Tennis team. My name is Michael Fields, and I'll be chronicling the team's season from an inside perspective. This is my sixth season as a member of the varsity tennis team. My co-captain, Ryan Erickson, and I are looking to cap our high school tennis careers with a successful season.
For the last five years, Hopkins tennis had been synonymous with Ali Barnett (after her recent marriage, Ali King). Ali was our head coach, and we loved having her, but due to a new addition to her family, she will not be coaching us this year. Her son Levi was born this fall, and Mr. Ken Novak will be taking over as coach for this season.
Despite his impressive basketball teams and recent state championships, Coach Novak has a few strong connections to tennis. First of all, his two sons, Andy, a sophomore, and Kenny, a freshman, have been on the team for three years. He also coached the Hopkins girls to a state championship in 1994. Among the members of that team was a certain seventh-grader: Ali Barnett.
Ryan is coming off an undefeated season, in which he won every match at #2 singles, and then partnered with Mac Gyswyt to win the doubles state championship. Mac now plays college tennis at Gustavus Adolphus University.
Ryan and I are among the team's five seniors. In addition to us, there is Brandon Rabinowitz, Andy Harris, and Duncan McConnell. Our two juniors, Jeremy Steinman and Clay Thompson, are beginning their first years on the team. Andy Novak is our only sophomore, and five freshman round out our team of thirteen: Kenny Novak, Manfred Barrios, Andrew Rust, Zach Miller, and Jackson Diedrich.
We've got a big week ahead of us, with Breck, Blake, and Spring Lake Park. I'll be writing about every match, so stay tuned!
Until then,
Michael
For the last five years, Hopkins tennis had been synonymous with Ali Barnett (after her recent marriage, Ali King). Ali was our head coach, and we loved having her, but due to a new addition to her family, she will not be coaching us this year. Her son Levi was born this fall, and Mr. Ken Novak will be taking over as coach for this season.
Despite his impressive basketball teams and recent state championships, Coach Novak has a few strong connections to tennis. First of all, his two sons, Andy, a sophomore, and Kenny, a freshman, have been on the team for three years. He also coached the Hopkins girls to a state championship in 1994. Among the members of that team was a certain seventh-grader: Ali Barnett.
Ryan is coming off an undefeated season, in which he won every match at #2 singles, and then partnered with Mac Gyswyt to win the doubles state championship. Mac now plays college tennis at Gustavus Adolphus University.
Ryan and I are among the team's five seniors. In addition to us, there is Brandon Rabinowitz, Andy Harris, and Duncan McConnell. Our two juniors, Jeremy Steinman and Clay Thompson, are beginning their first years on the team. Andy Novak is our only sophomore, and five freshman round out our team of thirteen: Kenny Novak, Manfred Barrios, Andrew Rust, Zach Miller, and Jackson Diedrich.
We've got a big week ahead of us, with Breck, Blake, and Spring Lake Park. I'll be writing about every match, so stay tuned!
Until then,
Michael
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