The forthcoming state tennis tournament in Seattle this weekend is anticipated to be an exhilarating showdown, with the team from North Kitsap aiming to make a significant impression. The team’s quest for a state title is steered by a group of multi-sport athletes who are prepared to take on the competition.
Coach Jay DeVries recently recalled a discussion he had two years ago, during which the talent and skill of his players were doubted by a rival team’s coach. Despite not conforming to the traditional archetype of tennis players, North Kitsap’s team has consistently defied expectations and amazed their opponents with their unconventional yet effective playing style.
DeVries has been coaching boys tennis at North Kitsap for 23 years and has also held girls’ duties for the past four years. Under his guidance, the team has developed a distinct approach to the sport, centred around discovering and nurturing the talents of part-time players who bring fresh perspectives to the game. Their unorthodox methods have often caught opposing coaches off guard, showcasing the team’s ability to disrupt the status quo.
As the team prepares for the 2A tournament, DeVries is confident in the abilities of his players. With seven athletes set to compete, including Indigo Gallagher, Teegan DeVries, Mason Chmielewski, Spencer Gillespie, Grady DeVries, Owen Wilkinson, Mason Repp, and Justin Gallant, the Vikings are poised to make a strong showing. Notably, the presence of three doubles teams in the boys’ field at state could be the key to securing the team title for North Kitsap, a feat that no other school has matched.
What sets North Kitsap’s team apart is their diverse pool of athletes, with some players dedicating themselves solely to tennis while others balance the sport with other athletic pursuits. Teegan DeVries, Spencer Gillespie, and Mason Chmielewski, the team’s top-seeded players, are all involved in other sports such as volleyball, basketball, and soccer, showcasing their versatility and athleticism.
One of the team’s standout players, Mason Chmielewski, faces the challenge of juggling both soccer and tennis matches on the same day, a dilemma that he successfully navigated last year. The prospect of potentially having to choose between two sports is a daunting one, and Chmielewski is hopeful that tournament organizers will be accommodating in scheduling the matches to allow him to participate in both events.
Coach DeVries acknowledges the exceptional talent and versatility of players like Chmielewski, highlighting the unique qualities that set them apart from traditional tennis players. The team’s ability to excel in multiple sports is a testament to their hard work and dedication, and their upcoming performance at the state tournament will undoubtedly be one to watch.
As the state tournament approaches, North Kitsap’s team is primed to make a strong statement, showcasing the power of multi-sport athletes who bring a fresh and dynamic approach to the game. The combination of talent, versatility, and determination is what sets them apart, and their pursuit of the state tennis title is a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence.