The Dawson County High School girls tennis team defeated East Hall, 3-2, in a Region 8-AA match last Thursday in Dawsonville.

Due to the length of the match it had to be moved to Rock Creek Park to finish. The tennis courts at the high school are not equipped with lights.

"I really appreciate them [Dawson County Parks and Recreation] letting us use their courts with such short notice," said head coach Jamey Bearden.

Lady Tiger Hannah Velcoff won at number one singles with a 6-1, 3-6, 6-4 decision over East Hall's Marissa Thompson.

"It was a close match in the second and third sets, but Hannah proved to be the stronger player and won," Bearden said,

Lady Viking Kacie Armour defeated Dawson's Lauren Morgan at number two singles.

"This was also a close match. The two players repeatedly had long grueling volleys and I feel that it could have gone either way. I am really proud of what Lauren accomplished though because she is only a freshman," Bearden said. "She plays mainly juniors and seniors, so for her to be this competitive only as a freshman really excites me. I can't wait to see what she will do."

At number three singles, Dawson County's Whitney Glover lost to Gravzielle Sepe, 4-6 and 3-6.

"They also had some long volleys and close points. I am so proud of Whitney this year because she is becoming very competitive. Her game has improved and she has a new confidence about her. I can't wait to see how she will do this season," Bearden said.
The Lady Tigers picked up two big wins in doubles play.

The number one doubles combination of Sarah Anglin and Lora Brown defeated Lady Vikings Crystal Flores and Tiffany Salazar, to win by scores of 6-3 and 6-3.

"They played together last year and truly work together as a team. They both have strong serves and do well at the net so they are at an advantage over their competitors," Bearden said.

Dawson sealed the victory at number two doubles with a 6-4 and 6-1 win by Kristi Hyams and Hannah Porter over Lilly Barrientos and Amy Rodiguez.

"They had me nervous at first because they have a very non-traditional approach to the game. But they settled in and captured our last win," Bearden said.

"Overall, I am very proud of the girls for what they did on Thursday. They had a very long match and stuck it out till the end. They never gave up," she added.

The team will be back in action this week with a match at Pickens on Thursday.

The first match will begin at 4 p.m.