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The girl’s tennis team went unbeaten in division play for the title in a stellar 2016 season. Here is a look back at their campaign.
The Pirates finished the season with a 16-2 overall mark and an 12-0 mark in the Freedom Division.
Much of the team’s success this year can be attributed to their depth.
“The depth of the team absolutely contributed to the successful season,” head coach Matt Perekupka said. “Having depth allows for more variety in practices and keeps players honest. Players had to continue to work on improving their game to earn and keep their positions.”
Cinnaminson opened the season on a 10-0 run before suffering their first loss, 3-2 to Rancocas Valley.
“I’d say the entire JV team gets the honor of most improved,” Perekupka said. “At the beginning of the season I saw a clear line between the varsity ready players and the girls who were new to the game.”
“The girls worked hard this season, you can tell they have been playing on their own, and really improved. Next year’s challenge matches are going to be very competitive. It’s a great problem to have.”
The Pirates earned the #4 seed in the South, Group 2 Tournament.
Cinnaminson defeated #13 Glassboro 4-1 in the opening round and then #5 Manchester Township 3-2 in the second round.
The Pirates were eliminated by eventual sectional champion #1 Haddonfield 5-0 in the semifinals.
Despite the loss to Haddonfield, the Pirates went on to win five straight matches to end the year.
“Now that we have had some success, I hope that allows players to build their confidence and heighten their expectations for next season,” Perekupka said.
“I hope the players recognize that we have more to achieve. The season is quick and there is not a whole of practice time once we start matches. Players need to realize that real improvements are made from November until August. Time you put in during the offseason will translate into success during the season.”
The season finale against Holy Cross, a 3-2 win, secured the Freedom crown for Cinnaminson.
“We did not want to share the division title,” Perekupka said. “We felt like it was an all or nothing situation. The team handled the pressure well. We were down early in the match but were able to make a comeback at third singles and first doubles to win the match and the division.”
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