DHS Tennis Team Makes it to District Playoffs for the First Time in Over 15 Years

The varsity tennis team made it to their fall district playoffs for the first time in over 15 years. Coached by Christopher Johnson, the team’s community, support, and commitment all helped them lead their way towards success. 

This year is Johnson’s second year coaching the varsity team, so it was unexpected for many when the team made it to the playoffs. 

“Making the playoffs for the first time in so long was surreal for everyone,” captain of the Bronco Varsity Team, junior Christoper “Topher” Dickens said. “We knew at the beginning of the year that we were in a position to do it, but it was really amazing to see our team come together.”

When the previous singles district champion, senior Reese Johnson tore her ACL, meaning that she could not defend her district champion title, it had impacts on the team.

“Reese is our #1 girl’s player, and her contribution is second to none,” Coach Johnson said. “Not having her in our roster this year did make it more challenging, but I believe the team saw that as not to take their spot for granted.”

Not having Reese on the team was hard, especially for the girls team, but thanks to other players stepping up, they were able to help lead their team towards the playoffs. 

“We had to win for our top girl, for after her awful injury, she wasn’t able to defend her district champion title,” senior Andrea Ahn said. “Even as a new tennis player of the varsity team, the hard work that each member of the team put into this fall season was evident.”

The hard work that all the players have put into the team has set a new standard for upcoming years to compete in their district playoffs. But, as a new UIL realignment has been set for the next few years, it could possibly make it harder for the team to compete in the playoffs again. 

“Although we will have a harder time qualifying for fall district again, Coach Johnson and the upcoming players are constantly finding ways to improve the tennis program in order to become a powerhouse in itself,” senior Archt Thanadrob said. 

In addition to the UIL realignment, the varsity team will also be losing multiple seniors as they graduate in May.

“I think that maybe we could make the playoffs if we work hard and are committed to the team, but losing the seniors will take a toll on the team,” freshman Lydia Curran said. 

Though it will be challenging on the team losing players, the team will continue to work hard for their next chance to go to future district playoffs. 

“We really don’t live in the past,” Coach Johnson said. “Instead, we just focus on the future for this program, and what we can control now.”