For the first time since the program was established in 1992, the Fenwick High School girls’ tennis team has someone new leading the way. Ron Rogala takes over this year for Gerard Sullivan, who retired from coaching after 32 seasons guiding the Friars.
“It’s an honor and privilege to have the opportunity to continue coach Sullivan’s legacy,” Rogala said. “I look forward to building on the foundation he laid.”
There’s a good chance that Rogala will experience success in his debut season, given that Fenwick returns 10 players. Seniors Rachel Abraham, Lily Brecknock, and Megan Trifilio were key contributors on the Friars’ 2022 Class 1A state championship team (Brecknock was also the singles champion) and provide experienced leadership.
Other varsity members are seniors Caroline Gruber, Elle Karls, Mia Menendez, and Lily Claire Nottestad; juniors Madeline Cheronis, Katie McCarthy, Olivia Perez-Zuleta, and Sydney Woitel; and sophomore Emma Louderback.
“I’m just getting to know the girls,” Rogala said. “So far, I admire their willingness to listen to a new voice, their competitive spirit, and their sense of humor. As I get to know the team, I expect each player will contribute to our overall success. We’re focused on this season and not dwelling on past success.”
Some of Fenwick’s top invitationals are at Hinsdale Central, Sept. 14; York, Sept. 21; and at OPRF, Oct. 5.
“We approach each match, whether invitational or dual, as a top match,” Rogala said.
The Friars have won the Girls Catholic Athletic Conference championship three consecutive seasons, and Rogala believes they’ll be in the title chase again, along with Loyola Academy and St. Ignatius.
“The program’s goal is to improve every day. If we meet that goal, the results will take care of themselves,” Rogala said. “I am excited to get started, and I’m looking forward to watching a lot of good tennis.”
OPRF
The Huskies return 10 players from last season, which ended with a tie for second place in the West Suburban Silver with York.
Sophomore Lucy Stein advanced downstate in singles, winning her first two matches, then winning two more matches after losing in the third round before finally ending her run in the consolation quarterfinals.
OPRF’s other returnees are seniors Alice Cadwell, Marin Chambers, Anika Gupta, Sophia Lynn, Maeve Marzec, Baylee Piasecki, and Sophie Welch; junior Maria Clara Lau; and sophomore Ava Lebovitz. Newcomers for the Huskies are seniors Josie Badrinath and Penelope Kong; juniors Teresa Cronin, Adalyn Dunphey, Mia Kircher, and Zoe Panton; and freshman Ella Rangsithienchai.
OPRF hosts its invitational, Oct. 5, with Fenwick among the teams participating. The Huskies also have top invitationals at Deerfield, Sept. 7, and at Prospect, Sept. 28.
Perennial state power Hinsdale Central figures to be once again the team to beat in the WSC Silver, with OPRF competing with Downers Grove North, Glenbard West, Lyons Township, and York for a top-three finish.