Madi Franz and the Lowell Catholic girls tennis team saved its best for last on Senior Day, earning its first win in its final match of the 2022 season, beating Greater Lowell Tech 3-2, May 23.
“We are really proud of this strong finish,” said coach Laura Dupre Wilson. “This team faced a lot of tough matches this year but approached each one with a positive attitude. I’m so grateful we were able to end on this note.”
A first-year tennis player, Franz was thrust into singles circulation after spending the entire season at doubles. The change seemed to bring out the best in her as she beat Kali Chea 7-6 (8-6), 6-1.
“Madi wanted to push herself for this last match, and she certainly rose to the occasion,’ said Dupre Wilson. “In the first set, Madi and Kali went into a tie breaker which ended 8-6 giving Madi the win. Then she really turned it up for the second set to finish quick.”
Meanwhile her teammates were holding up their end of the bargain. First singles player Kiley Ciccolo was in control of Victoria Emerson 6-4, 6-2. Second singles Jess Hodgdon was equally effective in a hard-fought 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 win against Catherine Chhim.
Lowell Catholic’s double teams were tested. First doubles tandem Emily Perry and Kat Kelley lost to Annabel Senechiame and Tyra Medina 6-0, 6-0. Second doubles unit Erin Scott and Monnavi Un suffered a similar fate against Norah Rondeau and Sydney Geoffrey 6-0, 6-0, with the Crusaders walking away with the one-point victory.
