By Marisa Dawson

Bennington High School’s girls tennis team hosted its first varsity dual of the season on Tuesday, March 24, falling just short in a tight 4-5 loss to Lincoln Northwest.

The Badgers showed strong individual performances in several key spots despite the narrow defeat. At #4 singles, Maysen Holdorf delivered a solid 8-5 victory against a tough opponent. In #5 singles, Ariel Crawford stayed calm and consistent to edge out a hard-fought 9-7 win. Hannah Wageman was on pace for an 8-3 victory at #6 singles when her opponent suffered an injury, resulting in a final score of 7-3 in her favor.

Wageman and Crawford also teamed up effectively in #2 doubles, winning 8-3 with strong communication and teamwork.

The match came on the heels of another close contest, as Bennington had fallen 4-5 to Waverly on March 20.

“The team was excited to host their first Varsity dual on our home courts,” said Coach Jennifer Christensen. “The match at Waverly on 3/20 also ended with a 4-5 overall team score. For our beginning of the season duals, they have been very close matches.”

Christensen noted that the early season has involved plenty of experimentation with lineups.

“We are still working on figuring out lineups and who plays best at singles versus doubles, who play well together at doubles, etc. but I am very happy with the matches so far and the grit and hustle our players have shown against strong opponents,” she said.

Despite the loss, the coach expressed optimism about the team’s trajectory.

“I am excited for the growth the team has shown already this season and expect them to continue improving as the season continues.”