As we dive deep into the school year, many students enjoy participating in their favorite fall sports. And the girls on the tennis team must really enjoy their sport because the Beaver Area varsity tennis team has thrived year after year, and this season is no different.

Cindy Liu is a senior this year and shared her positive attitude for the season.

“We’re doing well,” said Liu, “we’re undefeated.”

Michelle You, also a senior this year, is enthusiastic about her progress this year.

“The season is going well; I am having a lot of fun playing because tennis is always a time where I can de-stress,” said You. “I definitely feel like I have improved from last season, and I couldn’t have done it without my coach and friends.”

The team has competed against Blackhawk, Quaker Valley, and Riverside, among other schools.

On her own, You has also been quite successful.

“I have won all my matches so far this season, and that’s always great, but making friends with some of my opponents this year has always been the highlight of the season.”

After advancing to the WPIAL Team Tennis Tournament, the girls won 3-2 over Derry Area High School October 8, which allowed them to move on to round two against Valley High School last Monday—which they again won 3-2.

Though they lost 4-1 in the team semifinals against Knoch High School the next day, the girls had one last consolation match against Neshannock Thursday, which they won 3-2, keeping them in the hunt for the PIAA team title.

“We’ve been doing very well! We were undefeated section champs, and we lost in the third round in WPIALs,” said junior standout Anna Blum.

But that defeat wasn’t enough to discourage Blum and the team.

“We’re all happy with these results and it’s been a very fun season,” said Blum.

If it all goes well tomorrow against St. Mary’s, the girls head to Hershey Friday for a shot at the PIAA title.

The team has found their great success under the leadership of coaching legend Riley Baker and assisted by Janet DiTullio.

Here’s hoping that their leadership will guide the girls once again to a sweet victory in the land of chocolate.