The Dawson County High School boys tennis team defeated Gilmer County, 3-2, in its first match of the season last week in Dawsonville.

Winning Feb. 27 singles matches were Spencer Roper, Luke Branson and Riley Westbrook in convincing fashion.

Roper won 8-0, while Branson and Westbrook were victorious by 8-1 scores.

The Tigers lost both doubles matches.

Lane Venters and Jeremiah Freedlund lost at number one doubles, 8-3, while Tyler Griggs and Craig Butler lost, 8-6, in a close match at number two doubles.

"All three singles looked great and despite the doubles losses, I really think we are going to have a couple of solid teams once they get a little experience playing together," said coach Chris Lundy.

"Our goal is making it to the region tournament. We were very close last season and I think this team is both more talented and more focused than the group last year. I'm really excited about this group of guys," he added.

Dawson will play its next match at home against East Hall on Thursday.

The first match should start at 4 p.m.

Members of this year's team are: Spencer Roper, Luke Branson, Riley Westbrook, Lane Venters, Jeremiah Freedlund, Tyler Griggs, Craig Butler, Max Muldoon, Dakota Wood, Cameron Millholland, Grant Shope and Jesse Gee.