By Cort Reynolds

LIMA - The visiting Ada High School tennis team lost a close 3-2 battle to Lima Central Catholic on Thursday evening, April 23.

The youthful Ada netters dropped to 0-4 after the loss. 

“It was a battle, all the matches were pretty even,” said first-year Ada head coach Shelleigh Alexander. “We played without two of our top seven. We are seeing more growth and confidence.

“We almost got our first win, it was very hot and the players were dehydrated,” Alexander noted. “I am very proud of the players and see a lot of progress. We are playing very competitively.”

Playing up at first singles, Ada junior Brandon Prater lost to sophomore Evan Brinkman by a 6-0, 6-1 count.

“I am hoping Brandon gets over the hump soon, I think he will,” said the coach.

Junior Lawson Klingler defeated senior Chayse Helling at second singles  7-5, 6-2.

“Lawson really battled back to win in two sets in his second singles debut,” said Alexander.

Freshman Lucy Carter won by forfeit at third singles.

At first doubles, the Ada duo of juniors Brooklynn Andreasen and Jaylin St. Laurent won their first set 6-4 before dropping the final two sets 6-2, 6-3.

“Brooklynn and Jaylin did well moving up to first doubles,” said Alexander.

Senior Madi Rowland and junior newcomer Kaytlin Lambert lost a tough three-setter at second doubles in a third-set tiebreaker. After winning the first set, the Bulldog duo was edged 2-6, 7-5, 7-6.

“Kaytlin and Madi going to a third set in their debut together was impressive,” said the Bulldog coach. 

Ada entertains Western Buckeye League foe Celina (4-6, 4-3 WBL) Saturday at 10 a.m. Celina lost 3-2 at Kenton Thursday evening.