Coach Paul Demsher and the Tracy High girls’ tennis team look forward the season. After a disappointing finish last season, girls’ tennis team is poised for a successful season this year.

Tracy High athletics will be going through a large adjustment this year. Tracy, Lincoln and Lodi will be leaving the San Joaquin Athletic Association and joining St. Mary’s, Tokay and West in the Tri-City Athletic League.

“The new league is going to be a challenge.” Girls’ tennis head coach Paul Demsher said.

Coach Demsher, who led girls’ tennis to a third place finish last year, looks to place top three again this year. He jokes that everyone wants to win the league, but he is confident his team can place at least third in the new league.

Girls’ tennis was disappointed with its third place finish last year and looks to rectify that this season. Demsher cited unfortunate losses to Lincoln and Lodi that he hopes will not occur this year.

“Six of the top 12 girls from last year are still top 12 this year,” Demsher said.

The league championship is another area Demsher believes his team can display its talent. Sophomore Melanie Markovic, who placed second in league last year, has a good shot at getting first this season according to Demsher.

Demsher expects a lot from his returning cast, particularly juniors Sarah Kellogg, and Marissa Anderson. Kellogg and Andersen had a solid impact last year and Demsher hopes to see more of their success this year.

Girls’ tennis will also look for good production from senior captain Camille McDaniel. As a senior, McDaniel is one of the most experienced players on the team. She had success last year, and has worked this summer to make sure that her success continues.

“I exceeded my expectations for last season. In fact the team exceeded my expectations,” McDaniel said in regard to last season. She is excited about seeing the returning talent as well as for the move to the new league.

“I really want to improve on my mental game. I am now realizing how important it is in tennis to stay mentally strong as well as physically strong,” McDaniel said. She believes tightening up her mental game will take her tennis ability to the next level.

“I want to keep these new girls motivated to try their hardest and have fun. I want them to fall in love with this sport just like I did,” McDaniel said about her role as captain for the team.

The girls will play on Sept. 12-13 in the Freedom High tournament in Oakley.