High school tennis: Reigning champions are teams to beat

In the 5A and the 2A/1A boys tennis tournaments, every team in the competition will be fighting to dethrone last year's champions.

In the 2A/1A class, Rowland Hall is hoping to pick up its sixth championship in the last nine years. Joe Illingworth is the No. 1 singles player on the team, and Rowland Hall just won all five positions in the Region 14 tournament. The victory included a first place win by Illingworth over Beau Browning of Duchesne — who took first place in the 2A/1A state championships last year. The Winged Lion also swept through their season matches, recording an undefeated season. Rowland Hall was also able to pick up wins over some top 3A tennis teams such as Waterford, Judge Memorial and Park City High School.

Parowan, Manti and a handful of other teams have proven time and again that they can compete at the state level. Parowan returns four of the seven seniors from last year's third place squad. Led by seniors Skyler Harris and Sterling Rowley, the Rams should be able to make some noise this weekend. Manti made a great run at last year's tournament, finishing second. The Templars had a few key losses over the summer, but the returning squad puts them right in the mix of things.

The Brighton Bengals sit atop the 5A class, led by Spencer Smith. Smith hasn't lost a single match in his tenure at Brighton. He has four No. 1 singles Region 2 titles and is vying for his fourth consecutive state title.

Every No. 1 singles player in the state knows what is coming when they get matched up against Smith. The key for all of his opponents will be to have confidence before they even step on the court. Bingham might have the best shot of upsetting the Bengals. The Miners have took all five spots in the Region 3 tournament and have all the weapons of a state championship team.

"We're working a lot with our doubles," said coach Dave Davis, "we played a few weeks together but would've liked more time."

The Miners' duo of Dylan Harrison and Tony Mickelson lead the way at No. 1 doubles, hoping to follow in the steps of fellow teammates Jeff Peterson and Steven Balls — last year's No. 1 doubles champs. Peterson now leads the team at the No. 1 singles spot.

"The individuals have to do well for the team to do well," said Davis. Skyline has a great chance to sneak in as the dark horse of the tournament. The Eagles have battled all season and have great potential going into the tournament. Lone Peak, Hillcrest and Jordan all have shots at making noise this weekend but will have to play their best to compete. The 5A and 2A/1A State Tennis Tournament will take place this Friday and Saturday at Liberty Park

E-mail: cjohnson@desnews.com