YAKIMA – Medical Lake Cardinals doubles Tristan Francis and Isaac Barr fulfilled their goal of making the state tennis tournament. But they weren't able to place because of the tough competition at that level, according to Head Coach Dawn Eliassen.
Eliassen said the duo played well and were good representatives of the Medical Lake program.
"Isaac and Tristan represented themselves and our program well. They had moments of great shot-making and well played points," Eliassen said. "They just weren't able to string enough of those moments together to gain the momentum needed to win a match. The competition is so tight at the tournament. Everyone there is really good."
Eliassen noted the tournament was played in a great environment but admitted it may have been overwhelming for the Medical Lake team.
"It's a beautiful club and an amazing setting for a tournament with 15 outdoor courts and an indoor facility too," she said. "I almost think the boys were a little overwhelmed by the facilities and the number of people there. Three separate tournaments were taking place simultaneously. That means loads of players and spectators."
Francis and Barr dropped a first-round match to Granger in two sets, 2-6, 3-6. A second-round loss to Cascade High School bounced the Cardinals out of the tournament.
Eliassen said she and her staff were pleased with Francis and Barr's effort this year.
"Our coaching staff is proud that they fought as hard as they did to qualify for State. That was their goal from the beginning of the season," Eliassen concluded. "There's certainly reason to celebrate being one of just 16 doubles teams across the state to earn the right to play in Yakima."
Matthew graduated from West Virginia University-Parkersburg in 2011 with a journalism degree. He's an award-winning photographer and enjoys writing stories about people.
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