Players to watch
Published 11:17 pm Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Patrick Chung, Cascade, Sr.
The Bruins senior is coming off of an eight-place showing in the singles competition at state last year. He’s held the top spot at Cascade all four years he’s played for the Bruins and he’s looking for an even better showing at state this year. “Patrick is a hard worker. And he’s a competitor. He goes out where with the frame of mind that he’s going to win every match and come out on top,” said Cascade head coach Ashley Layton.
Jimmy Hua, Kamiak, So.
Cascade’s loss is Kamiak’s gain. Hua transferred to the Mukilteo school and will slide into the Knights No. 1 spot. “(Jimmy) is an amazing team player that has fit into our system like he has been here all along,” said Kamiak coach Vic Alinen.
Nick Ekern, Meadowdale, Sr.
The defending Wesco 3A district champ is looking to get back to state this year after going 1-2 in the state tourney last spring. “Nick is looking very strong, determined and motivated,” said first-year Mavs coach Warren Bailey. Bailey added that Ekern’s hard work has rubbed off on teammates like projected No. 2 and No. 3 singles players Bret Matysik and Grayson Cox, respectively.
Cameron McDowell, Shorewood, Jr.
McDowell won a Wesco 3A district title and went to state last year as a doubles player with partner Stuart Schachle. This year he’s switching to singles and will be the Thunderbirds No. 1 singles player. “He has improved on his game to become a tough singles player and a player to watch this season,” said Shorewood coach Arnie Moreno.
Jonathan Spores, Stanwood, Sr.
Jonathan takes over the No. 1 singles spot from another Jonathan: Wolf, who took seventh at state singles last spring. Spores will be asked to be a leader on an unusually young Spartans squad. “Jonathan is a senior who has worked extremely hard to improve his play,” said Stanwood head coach Trudy Abrams.
Grant Shultz, Lake Stevens, Sr.
The Vikings senior went 0-2 at last year’s district tournament, but he’s ready to take the next step and will be playing No. 1 singles after playing No. 2 a year ago. “Grant is an experienced, athletic player who is providing great leadership for our team,” said Lake Stevens coach Mark Hein. “He works hard at his game, conditioning, and helping his fellow seniors lead our team.”
