Republic capped off an already memorable day by sweeping Webb City 9-0 Thursday evening in their Senior Night dual, just hours after their dramatic 5-4 victory over Branson.
The win celebrated the final home match for six seniors: Cooper Choate, Gavin Collyott, Kyle Cunningham, Elijah Kennard, Andrew McCord, and Boston Henry. (Scroll down for photos.)
Coach David Smashey reflected on the seniors’ impact on the program before the match.
“There’s no telling the total number of JV and varsity and singles and doubles that these guys have totaled. But they’ve also really been central to the growth of our program in other ways: the growth of our culture, the nature of our team, the way it supports each other,” Smashey said.
The senior class has helped build a foundation for the future of Republic tennis, according to Smashey.
“These guys are talented. They have dedication. They’re generous. And we are better in many, many ways than when they first arrived,” he said. “They’ve really laid a foundation for the underclassmen who are coming back and for new players that haven’t ever been on our court yet.”
Smashey added that their impact extends beyond their athletic accomplishments.
“What we’re doing tonight is celebrating what they’ve done while as tennis players here at Republic. But this is a group of people, they’re going to be really successful and do amazing things after they leave here,” he said. “It’s been a real privilege to watch them grow and learn and develop as players and human beings.”
The sweep of Webb City improved Republic’s record in dual play to 8-3. The Tigers will square off against Neosho and Glendale next week.
Photos by David Brazeal
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