Republic tennis claimed second place at the COC West Tournament at Cooper Tennis Complex in Springfield, winning two matches before falling to Joplin in the championship.
The Tigers swept Neosho 5-0 in their opening match. Lucas Riffe and Gavin Collyott won 8-0 at No. 1 doubles, while Nathan Henry and Andrew McCord posted an 8-1 victory at No. 2 doubles. Neosho defaulted at No. 3 doubles and Nos. 4 and 5 singles.
Republic followed with a 5-0 win over Willard, starting fast in a matchup that had been more competitive earlier in the season.
In the championship against Joplin, the Tigers battled to the final match before falling 5-4.
“It was a great tennis match,” coach David Smashey said. “They are a really good team and we battled them to the end.”
Andrew McCord delivered at No. 5 singles, keeping Republic in contention. Riffe added a comeback win at No. 1 singles, falling behind 0-4 before winning eight straight games.
“Considering how ridiculously difficult the conditions were, with gusts of 40 mph, he was still able to be aggressive and dictate play,” Smashey said.
Individual districts begin May 3, with team district play starting May 5.
“I’m hopeful that if we play well in districts, we might get one more shot at them,” Smashey said. “Our guys would love to have that chance.”
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