The Iola tennis team is heading into the season with the most loaded roster it’s had in recent memory.
The Mustangs will be returning a strong string of senior leaders including Keira Fawson, who reached the state meet last fall for the second time in her career. Fawson placed fifth at the regional meet in Chanute to qualify for the state competition.
Rebekah Coltrane also returns valuable playing time. Both she and Fawson will play in singles competition. Seniors Kennedy Maier and Molly Riebel will likely return in doubles play. Jillian Ward joins the team for the first time.
“All five of the seniors have their own ways of being team leaders,” Iola head coach Chris Belknap said. “The team is very welcoming to all and it is great seeing players step up to help each other without being told to.”
Junior Melanie Palmer also returns after competing in doubles action last fall. Other returners include juniors Kyndal Bycroft and Madeline Wanker. 
“We will push for a better season year after year,” said Belknap. “My hopes are to always grow the team. Not just by team numbers, which we are succeeding at, but also by community buy-in to tennis which is evident year after year.”
Fifteen Mustangs are on the roster, including four sophomores and two freshmen.
Off the bat, Belknap is emphasizing technique.
“Serves are very important. Without a consistent serve you give away a lot of points,” he said. “The girls are also learning how to hit different balls and stay in the moment. We’re also going to be working on playing more aggressively.”
“I like the constant movement and fast pace of the sport,” said Belknap. “Constantly moving so there’s no time to get lost in thought. It’s OK to make mistakes, it’s how you deal with those mistakes and move on that matter. But you get a second serve and could still win.”
Belknap said he appreciates the support the team receives from the community.
“We owe great thanks to our community,” said Belknap.
The Mustangs face off against Independence and Columbus on Thursday at 3 p.m.
