NC’s varsity boys and girls tennis teams exhibited talent with a victory at the Granger Invitational Tennis Tournament. From March 10 to 12, prestigious teams from all divisions of the state came to compete for first place. This renown tourney reserves itself for the top high school tennis athletes throughout Georgia, setting high standards for each competitor.

“It’s a challenge and the tourney is kind of intimidating, but I have no doubt in the capabilities of my team,” junior singles player Chase Seufert said.

John Hullender, boys varsity coach, and Laura Smith, girls varsity coach, pushed the athletes and motivated them to thrive in their region.  The teams set out on their trip midday Friday, heading directly to their first matches with determination.

NC’s varsity boys tennis team triumphed over Collins Hill High School with a score of 4 to 1. The team celebrated their first win and proceeded to the semi-finals.

Coach Smith’s varsity girls set the bar high with a victory over Eagles Landing on Friday. A score of 4 to 1 sent them to the next round of the tournament.

Staying at the Hampton Inn just down the street from the tennis complex, the coaches woke the team up with a motivational speech and breakfast. Before noon, both the boys and girls varsity teams took yet another victory.

“Coach Hullender supports us as students, athletes and people. He gives us the motivation and guidance necessary to get to the point we’re currently at,” sophomore singles player Blake Williams said.

NC’s boys varsity team competed against one of their greatest rivals, Hillgrove High School. The title for best tennis team finally settled after NC prevailed with a tight score of 3-2. Sophomore Kaden Barfield played the match of the night at line one singles as all of the observers watched the rallies on the edge of their seats.

The girls represented NC well after defeating Central Carroll High School 4 to 1 and grasping a first place title against Brookwood with a score of 5 to 0. Varsity boys pushed to the championship finals but suffered a loss against Brookwood’s male team, gaining second place and a shiny trophy for NC’s extensive collection.