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With graduation and the 10th Region Tournament approaching, George Rogers Clark High School’s boys and girls tennis teams looked to celebrate several players in their final year of competition in a GRC uniform. 

Despite hazardous outdoor weather, such festivities were not delayed. 

The tennis teams observed senior night on Monday, May 6th, inside the school’s auxiliary gym. 

“For each senior, to honor them, we have a gift,” said Head Coach Seth Heinss. “We’ll celebrate them as well.” 

Currently, the co-ed roster consists of ten seniors: Lily Roberts, Calvin Roach, Madelyn Goeing, Rylan Graves, Ella Grace Lowe, Lauren Anderson, Carley Cunningham, Captain Ryan Jackson, and co-captain Clay Turley. 

Several have been team members for numerous years, while others are more recent additions.  

Jackson, who will soon attend Morehead State University to study exercise science, spoke. 

“I’ve just really kind of been trying to enjoy [senior year]. It’s been really fun. It’s been competitive. We played a lot of really good Lexington teams”, he said. “They told me going into the season my role is going to be more than just where I played on the team, so I’ve been focused on just kind of keeping people engaged…whether it be [in] matches or practice.” 

Turley, a multi-sport athlete who also starred for the Cards’ 40th District Championship-winning soccer team and was a member of the football team, also spoke. 

“I’d like to think I bring just a positive attitude to the team [to] help them get through [competition],” he said. 

Each soon-to-be graduate was introduced by name during the festivities, with teammates saying something positive about each. 

While being recognized, each student-athlete was awarded a gift bag with numerous items, including a t-shirt celebrating their efforts and contributions. 

Afterward, in addition to group pictures and individual time spent with family, all in attendance were welcome to a meal consisting of hot dogs, chips, and various desserts and drinks. 

Next up for the season is the 10th Region Tournament, with different matchups scheduled for May 10th, 11th, and 13th. 

The girls’ tournament takes place at Campbell County High School, with the boys’ tournament scheduled at Scott High School. 

While the full bracket is yet to be released as of press time, the Cards have much to be excited about. 

Juniors Cassi Lowe and Madelyn Settles, winners of two consecutive years, look to defend their 10th Region Championship crown in doubles competition. 

“It’s exciting. We want to three-peat”, Settles said. 

“We’re both just very consistent,” Lowe added. 

Last season, Turley won the 10th Region crown in doubles competition with the now-graduated Tennyson Prater. This season, Turley looks to repeat with teammate and long-time friend junior Hayden Cockrell. 

“I’m excited. I think we can go for two in a row,” Turley said. “I feel like [Cockrell] is really strong…we work really well together.” 

For the girls’ tournament, Lowe and Settles have received the #1 seed, while Ella Grace Lowe and Lily Roberts have received the #7 seed. 

Turley and Cockrell have received the #3 seed in the boys’ tournament.