The sound of rackets is absent from the usual home of the Clayton High School tennis team – Shaw Park. With the tennis courts under construction the JV and varsity squads have moved their training to Westminster Academy.
“The convenience of Shaw Park is certainly missed. The court change limits the amount of time and space the girls have on the court,†JV tennis coach Adam Barbee said.
It’s true. There are only five courts at Westminister Academy, a 5 court difference between the number of courts at Shaw.
Ultimately, this inconvenience is something to be grateful for. (The renovated courts are slated to be done September 22nd will feature many scheduled activities on the opening day.)
“The Athletic Office staff and Coach Luten have worked hard to arrange alternative practice facilities,†Barbee said. “We were very fortunate to have Washington University and Ladue School District allow us to use their courts. I am also thankful for the support and flexibility of each of the girls and their parents this season.â€
Despite this change, the tennis team is still being held to the standard of excellence the squad as experience in the last few years.
“The varsity team is one of the four strongest teams in all of St. Louis,†Suzy Luten, varsity tennis coach, said. “We have three outstanding nationally ranked players at the top of our lineup. They are: Carly Cassity, Caroline Greenberg and Connor Cassity. We have a goal of winning districts and facing off with a two time state champion, Visitation Academy, for the opportunity to go to the team state tournament.â€
