by Layne Liberg, Junior

As a former Palisades tennis player, I am well aware of the culture involved with the sport. It takes a special kind of determination to keep pushing on through every practice and game. Tennis is a game where every point can sway the tides of the game, and there are a lot of points to be earned. This tennis season has just wrapped up, and it’s safe to say that it was a strong season. This season was one of change and discovery. The team was introduced to two new sensational players, Lucas Carson and Caden Ryan. Both of these players have solidified their place on the roster. Caden Ryan earned a very impressive 1st Doubles spot in his very first year, which is no easy feat. A new manager was selected this year, Mollee Liberg. The final addition to this year’s team is the assistant manager, Mr. Bold. The most heartbreaking part of the conclusion to this season is a devastating blow to this team’s roster, a loss of five seniors. This team will forever miss Andrew Woerz, Nathan Clapp, William Zaleski, Henry Hayman, and AJ Allsop. 

Everyone on the team has had moments of triumph and moments of disappointment this season. Andrew Liberg, sophomore, was asked about his personal season and seemed very proud of what he was able to accomplish throughout the season with his doubles partner, Caden Ryan. This was Andrew’s second season. He found his place in doubles, and his serve was phenomenal with multiple aces in a variety of games. With a more than respectable record of 7-3, Andrew and Caden were a shining beacon of hope for the upcoming seasons. Andrew has noted that his rise through the ranks in the tennis bracket has not been an easy one. He played on JV almost exclusively last season, so this large leap from JV to first doubles was staggering. A few games Andrew has fond memories of include defeating Palmerton, Pen Argyl, and Saucon Valley. As for Dakoda Underkofler, junior, who has been playing since his freshman year, this year could be his last. He has consistently found himself on the doubles roster and one of the most valuable players due to his consistency. I was his doubles partner for freshmen year, and I can say he was amazing then and has done nothing but improve since. Dakoda has a very unique ability that is pivotal to success: Calm. Many of Dakoda’s doubles partners often get disappointed whenever they lose a point, while Dakoda keeps himself cool, which provides a great anchor for his partners to keep them clear-headed. One thing for certain is that this Tennis season marks a new era for the team. 

It’s going to be a formative time for the Palisades Tennis Team, but it’s exciting to see how Palisades tackles this challenge and hits back harder than ever. If you are interested in joining the Palisades Boys Tennis team and becoming a part of the new wave, sign up for Boys Spring Tennis next year.