Central's girls tennis team wins District 12 title

The Central girls' tennis team defeated Cardinal O'Hara, 5-0, Thursday in the District 12 Class 3A final. It was the fourth consecutive year the Lancers came out victorious against the Lions.

Seniors Gabrielle Garrett and Tiffany Atmadja have not lost a match in their four-year careers as Lancers. The trend continued, when each player won her singles match, 6-3, 6-1, and 6-2, 6-1, respectively. Garrett and Atmadja are part of a team that is 53-0 in District 12 matches since stepping on the court as freshmen.

"Gabby and Tiffany arrived at Central as tournament-level players," head coach Bill Graham said. "We are fortunate to have them. I am more impressed with how they've grown as young women. They have their priorities in order and do a great job as leaders."

Central faces District 1 runner-up Conestoga on Tuesday to begin its run at a state championship. Though the Lancers breezed through the Public League, Graham's squad always embraces a challenge.

"The team thrives on playing tough competition," Graham said. "They have told me that they'd rather lose against a great team than beat an overmatched team. For them, playing a great team is more fun — regardless of the result. So we are getting our wish against a Conestoga team that is very talented and well-coached. They are a threat to win the state title and we will have to play our best tennis of the year to be competitive."