Ahlborn repeats singles title
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MISSOULA—Senior Spencer Ahlborn of St. Ignatius repeated as boys’ singles champion. He defeated Josiah Petersen of Valley Christian 7-5, 4-6, 6-3 in the state championship match.
Not only was it the first repeat win for St. Ignatius but also the first time tennis boys coach Kimimi Ashley has had anyone go undefeated during the season.
This year Ashley said Spencer put in additional hours on the court.
“Some days we had three hour practices and Spencer would stay three more hours,” his coach commented, “The day before state he was six hours on the court.”
Also qualifying for state were seniors Mauro Grosso, Bryan Schock, and Trail Bundy; sophomores Kyle Schock and Katz Yelsa; junior Harry Suta and freshman Karl Daniels.
As a team St. Ignatius totaled 30 for third behind BigFork with 40 and team champions Valley Christian scoring 44.
“I am really going to miss my four seniors. Not just as players but as leaders,” said Ashley.
Two girls from St. Ignatius also qualified for the state tournament. Juniors Jane Makepeace and Sarah Bowers competed in girls’ singles. They scored a total of 8 team points.
Makepeace won her first match against Carry Vandall of Wolf Point 6-0, 6-1 and then lost to Camila Brassolatti of Broadwater County 2-6, 6-4, 6-2. Makepeace won two more matches in the consolation bracket and was eventually defeated by Deanna Woodhouse of Fort Benton 6-0, 6-3. Bowers won one match in the consolation bracket and was defeated in the next round by Woodhouse 6-0, 6-3.
“They both did really well,” girls coach Sara Ison said. “I’m really glad we have another year with them.”
