Published: August 27, 2008 11:54 am            

Woods takes over EHS girls tennis program

Angela Woods is far from an unfamiliar face to the local high school tennis scene, but for the first time she'll be heading up a program as she takes over the girls' team at Effingham High School.

"I've served four years as the volunteer assistant coach for the boys' tennis team at EHS, and two of those years with the girls too," said Woods, a University of Illinois at Chicago graduate. "I'm an avid tennis fan, participant and I play in Effingham's women's tennis league where I have been fortunate to have won many championships in singles and doubles."

Woods says she spent some time over the summer working with the girls on her new team and is becoming more familiar with their games.

"Our overall strengths include seven seniors returning, creating a good base of experience for the team," said Woods. "A number of the top players are underclassmen who are strong players already, so they'll only get better.

"We're well-rounded with a good mix of baseliners and net players. One weakness would be the underclassmen, while very talented, haven't developed their experience on the court as team players."

Last season's EHS team finished .500 in dual matches, and a goal for this year's club will be to win a clear majority.

"I want the girls to play smart, consistently and strategically," said Woods. "Doing this, I think we can win the Apollo Conference. We also want to have fun and stay healthy throughout the season."

Fourth-year senior Ashley Kreke will serve as a captain as one of four returning letterwinners.

"Ashley is our team leader, conducting practices over the spring and summer to keep this team together," said Woods. "Her efforts are showing as her game has improved significantly since last season."

Sophomores Emma Johnson and Meghan Scott are also returning letterwinners.

"Emma took second in singles at the Apollo Conference tournament and qualified for state as a freshman," said Woods. "She'll be at the top of our lineup again this year.

"Meghan played this summer and her strong work habits have paid off as her aggressive style of play and fit condition give her the potential to have a very successful season."

A half-dozen other seniors will also be vying for court time.

"Shelley Smith and Alli Grussing are two additional returning seniors," said Woods. "Shelley is a returning letterwinner; both have been on the team all four years. We're looking for them to provide consistency and leadership on the team.

"Taryn Goings has worked her way up to the varsity this year. Playing a lot this summer has paid off for her; she'll be a strong player.

"Three more seniors are Julie Stock, Tara Watson and Carissa Yocum. They bring support and contribute with their love of the game. They work hard at practice, demonstrating team spirit."

The two juniors on Woods' roster are newcomers to EHS tennis.

"Danny Kade is new to the team and very eager to play hard," said Woods. "She has a solid work ethic.

"Farina Wilhelm is a foreign exchange student from Germany joining our varsity team. She has plenty of playing experience in her homeland and will be a welcome addition to the team."

Sophomore Shelby White and freshmen Ashley Dittamore, Rachel Gouchenouer and Morgan McWhorter round out the Flaming Hearts' roster.

"Shelby is new to the team this year," began Woods. "Her attitude and willingness to excel will take her far.

"Ashley is a beginner to the game, a young lady with a lot of heart who is likely to improve steadily throughout the season.

"Rachel and Morgan will both contribute greatly to the team, excelling with solid experience in their backgrounds. Each has great strokes, consistency and court presence."

Effingham's season begins Friday at the Springfield High School Invitational, and as mentioned Woods thinks her team can be tough in the Apollo.

"The addition of the newcomers and more accomplished returning players has given the team much greater depth this year," said Woods. "The Apollo is always a big challenge, and with this greater depth we have a great opportunity to meet that challenge."

Dustin White can be reached at 217-347-7151 ext. 123 or dustin.white@effinghamdailynews.com.