Published: May 14, 2008 11:02 am      

MHS tennis places third at state

The McAlester boys tennis team placed third in the state tournament, held in Oklahoma City Friday and Saturday.

The Buffs’ No. 2 singles Tucker Olson finished in second place at the Class 4A State tournament. Tucker defeated Harrah in his first match 6-0, 6-0 in the first round. He moved on to the quarter final match — which he defeated Skiatook 6-2, 6-0. The match against Duncan in the semi finals was 3-6, 6-3, 6-0 to advance to his final match in the tournament.

Tucker lost to Bishop Kelley 6-0, 6-2 in the finals and walked out with the second place award.

The boys No. 1 singles Luka Radolovic finished in third place, defeating Altus in the first round 6-0, 6-0, Ardmore 6-0, 6-3. Radolovic’s run ended to Bishop Kelley 6-0, 6-2. He came back to defeat Skiatook 6-2, 6-3, for the third place honors.

The Buffs’ No. 1 doubles Chris Burns and John Harrison defeated Ardmore in consolation 6-4, 6-3. Harrison and Burns were eliminated by Carl Albert in the third round 6-2, 6-2.

The Buffs’ Lane Brenner and Kenny Verrill was eliminated in the second round for the No. 2 doubles,

“I feel the boys stepped up and played well at state,” coach Chad Waller said. “Some matches that was lost, we could have won.”

The MHS Tennis banquet was held Tuesday evening at the Meeting place to honor all the players.

There was awards handed out from best back hand, to most likely to break a racket at state.

Waller was very involved at the banquet, handing out awards to the players and even thanked the head tennis coach for the University of Oklahoma Paul Lockwood for being the guest speaker for the banquet.

Lockwood gave some helpful advice to the Buffs players. He shared hints, tips, and wisdom to the players that he has experienced in his 20 plus years as head coach for the Sooners.

“Work on the things your good at, don’t always try to make the things you are bad at better,” Lockwood said during his speech. “ You must develop habits. Once you develop good habits you’ll learn how to relax when you need to relax.”

Waller ended the night encouraging his players to keep practicing and thanked many people who have helped and encouraged the team and him.

“There is lots of talent on this team,” Waller said. “We plan on being at the top, next season.”

Waller will direct the Summer Tennis program for youth, ages six to 18 years of age at the Chadick park tennis courts.

The cost of the six week course will be $30 and will be held from June 2 to July 15.

To sign up for the program, call the Stipe Recreation Center at 421-4922 or 423-9268.

For more information contact Chad Waller at 916-7211.

Contact Porky Falcon pfalcon@mcalesternews.com