Republic’s tennis team defeated Springfield Central 6-3 Tuesday at Cooper Tennis Complex, their first victory over the Bulldogs since 2019. During the four-match drought, the Tigers had won just seven of 33 individual contests against Central.
Lucas Riffe and Gavin Collyott anchored the victory, losing only two games combined in their singles matches and shared doubles contest. The pair started with an 8-1 win at number one doubles.
“Lucas and Gavin at 1 doubles returned serve and defended at a really elite level,” coach David Smashey said. “They are starting to have a clear identity as a team.”
After Nathan Henry and Cooper Choate fell 4-8 at number two doubles, Andrew McCord and Nico Lugli secured a crucial 8-6 win at number three doubles.
“Andrew and Nico’s win at three doubles gave us the lead heading into the singles,” Smashey said. “They both defend the court so well that they are really difficult to beat.”
In singles play, Republic claimed four of six matches. Riffe won 8-0 at number one, while Collyott followed with an 8-1 win at number two. Henry lost 6-8 at number three, while McCord contributed an 8-1 victory at number four singles. After Choate lost 3-8 at number five, Lugli completed a perfect day with an 8-0 win at number six.
Smashey noted the team’s development beyond technical skills.
“I’m really encouraged not just by the high quality of our play, but how we are developing as a team,” Smashey said. “Our guys are encouraging and supporting each other in a very positive way. That’s going to be key if we are to accomplish what we hope to do this year.”
Republic’s junior varsity also defeated Central 11-4.
The Tigers are 2-0 and are scheduled to host Carthage on Thursday.
