BHS doubles team nets title

By Pete Watson/News Republic

The 2008 campaign ended on a very successful note for the Baraboo Thunderbirds girls tennis team.

Competing in the Baraboo Sectional at the Nielsen Tennis Stadium at UW-Madison on Wednesday, BHS' No. 3 doubles contingent grabbed gold medals in come-from-behind fashion.

Juniors Hilary Bildsten and Kristen McReath, who finished the year with a record of 20-4, took down Middleton's senior pair, Amanda Schwarz and Mairin Ryan (23-4) in three sets, 0-6, 6-4, 6-4, to capture the championship.

"It's been really gratifying to see them gel throughout the season and become an outstanding doubles team," said BHS coach Karll Kruse.

The duo hasn't lost a match since Aug. 26 vs. Fort Atkinson — the same Fort Atkinson team they defeated en route to a Badger Conference championship at No. 2 doubles a couple weeks ago. The pair can now add more hardware to their expanding trophy case.

"Teamwork, patience and confidence are the their two biggest attributes," said Kruse. "They've been on a roll and their success has its roots in confidence."

Confidence, or determination was called into action in the finals, as Bildsten/Mcreath fell 0-6 in the opening set. Displaying the same poise as they have all season long, the team refocused and stayed positive, taking the final two sets with methodical precision.

"After the first set they got to start over and had the mindset of doing right in the second," Kruse said. "They got their lobs deeper, had better shots and eventually the momentum turned in their favor.

"It was a big task against a very tough (Middleton) team. They were battle-hardened were very experienced and it certainly was a big win for the girls."

The duo advanced to the sectional finals by topping Waunakee's Tricia Schlachter and Shyla Gilbertson, 7-5, 6-4.

BHS' No. 1 doubles squad, seniors Mya Flentje and Rachel Holtz were defeated in their opening round matchup by Kirsten Brose and Sarah Christian from Verona. The victors went on to win the Baraboo sectional over Middleton.

"Though they didn't win, it was a nice way for the two seniors to go out," said Kruse. "It's been a true pleasure to coach them and it will be tough not having them around because of their personalities and play."