The girls’ tennis team at Dover High School, which secured the last two Division I state championships, encountered uncertainty this season after the departure of three key players from last year’s title-winning lineup. Despite this, the Green Wave fought valiantly and earned a spot in the Division I semifinals for the fourth consecutive year. However, their impressive streak was halted as they were defeated by No. 2 Bedford with a score of 5-4, concluding their season with a record of 13-3.
Sue Vitko, the coach, expressed her disappointment, stating that the loss was particularly challenging for the team, who are not accustomed to defeat. The crucial moment of the match occurred during the third doubles, where Dover’s Paige Wilson and Mia Mozzoni narrowly lost to Bedford’s Kaylee Raff and Elyse Flynn with a score of 8-6, securing the victory for Bedford. The postponement of the match from Monday to Tuesday due to rain further added to the pressure.
Despite the defeat, the Dover seniors should take pride in their remarkable track record, having only suffered four defeats throughout their high school careers. This includes a previous loss to Bedford in the championship match during their freshman year, as well as regular-season losses to Derryfield and Exeter this year, and the recent tournament defeat.
The losing seniors exhibited resilience and gratitude, with Dover senior Tory Vitko expressing satisfaction with her accomplishments, having claimed two championships during her high school tenure. Bedford will advance to the state championship game to face No. 1 Derryfield, while Dover’s reign as champions in 2022 and 2023 came to an end.
Despite the defeat, Dover managed to secure victories in three singles matches and one doubles match. Both Tory Vitko and Mia Mozzoni contributed to the team’s performance, with Swierk and Bastille also emerging victorious in their doubles match. Their efforts were commendable, despite the overall loss to Bedford.
The Dover team displayed sportsmanship in defeat, acknowledging the strength of their opponents and expressing appreciation for their own achievements. Coach Sue Vitko praised the seniors for their exceptional performance and resilience, particularly as they faced the challenge of replacing key players in their lineup.
In conclusion, while the Dover High School girls’ tennis team’s journey was unexpectedly halted in the Division I semifinals, their legacy of two consecutive state championships and an impressive overall track record is something to be celebrated and remembered.