Same old teams eye tennis titles

With one team competing for its sixth straight crown, another trying to complete a trifecta of state titles and two more aiming for their fifth championships in seven years, there will be a lot of same-old, same-old at the top of every division in boys tennis this year. As Logan proved last year by knocking off four-time straight state champion Park City, however, any committed team can play spoiler.

In 5A, there is no doubt Brighton, going for its third straight title, will compete for the championship again.

"Brighton is going to be dominant. They've got their two state champ singles back and a third that's supposed to be just as good," Lone Peak coach John LaCognata said.

The returning dominating singles players are Spencer Smith at first singles and Corbin Benson at second. Newcomer Grant Taylor will round it out at third singles.

"We expect to keep the same standard of excellence. We want to make everybody play their extreme best to have to beat us," Brighton coach Natalie Aposhian said.

Lone Peak hopes to be that team. The Knights return Spencer and Tyler Loong at first and second singles, as well as Mike Nielson at first doubles.

"We've got five seniors, but I've also got ten sophomores and two freshmen. I hope we have a fast learning curve," LaCognata said.

Both coaches expect stiff competition from Bingham, which made a good showing at state last year. Lehi, behind Devin Dean, Pleasant Grove with Taylor Dehoyos and Timpanogos with Tyler Mayberry should also put up a good fight.

"Everyone has a real strong top-notch player this year," LaCognata said.

In 4A, Timpview has won five straight state championships, but with the margin of victory getting slimmer through the years. With only two points separating first and second the last two seasons, this year's battle is looking to be fierce. One competitor aiming to give Timpview fits come state is Highland, which finished just three points behind Timpview last year.

"Highland has a good strong tradition in tennis. I expect we'll be competing for region and state again," coach Mark Foote said. "Timpview is obviously the team to beat again. They seem to always have a deep team and are really competitive."

Highland returns several key players from last year's team, including Sutton Shackleford, runner-up in second singles last season, and Devon Lane, who took state last year in first singles as a freshman.