To say that the local girls scholastic tennis scene is a perennial power would likely be an understatement. Three of the top teams in San Diego County on a yearly basis reside right here in La Jolla High, La Jolla Country Day School and The Bishop’s School. Taking a look at this year’s editions, La Jolla Country Day School is led by new head coach Joslynn Burkett. The Lady Torreys finished 12-0 in Coastal League play last season and were CIF finalists. Leading the way this fall will be sisters Elena and Sophie Najera, who will be hoping to defend their CIF doubles title. LJCD also has Lindsey Kostas, who will add strength to the top of the lineup. “This season we are looking to defend our league title and have a strong showing at CIF,” Burkett said. At The Bishop’s School, Mariel DeYoung takes over as head coach for the Lady Knights. Bishop’s finished last season at 12-6 overall, 8-4 in the Coastal League. The Lady Knights placed third in the Coastal League and were CIF quarterfinalists in Division III. According to DeYoung, junior Bianca Pham will be one of the team’s key singles players this season. “She (Pham) had a strong showing in our first match against Valhalla and I expect she will continue to have great success this season,” DeYoung commented. DeYoung noted that senior Carly Woodworth worked very hard over the summer and has greatly improved both her singles and doubles games. On the doubles side, senior Camilla Johnston is returning after having a strong CIF finish last year. “She (Johnston) is a great leader and I expect she could exceed even her own expectations,” DeYoung noted. Bishop’s has 12 experienced returning players, eight of whom are seniors, and two new players who are eager to contribute. “We have a strong singles lineup but doubles will be a key factor,” DeYoung added. “We need to continue working on our volleys and strategies out there. Overall, this team has a lot of excitement and energy and we are ready for a great season.” At La Jolla High, the Lady Vikings under head coach Maggie Mulkins finished 10-5 a season ago. Key players to look to this fall should include Alison Klein, Nathaly Moungvong, Jessica Woods, Tali Gires and Tiffany Fan. “With a young team, and with the addition of some new freshmen, I am hoping for a strong season,” Mulkins remarked.
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