Midway High School Tennis wrapped up an outstanding season this year at the UIL State Tennis Tournament in San Antonio, competing among the top teams in Texas.
Juniors Izzy Hinojos and Cadence McCreery made history as the first Midway girls doubles team to play in the state tournament. The duo ended their impressive season as 6A state quarterfinalists after taking second place at regionals to qualify for state.
"I am so proud of Cadence and Izzy,” Midway High School Tennis Head Coach Troy Simonek said. “They have tremendous heart and passion for their team. They always set a high standard of preparation at practice and set an amazing example of resiliency.”
In addition, mixed doubles duo senior Clay Gibson and junior Emma Rhea advanced to compete in the state championships after a second-place regional finish and also concluded their season in the 6A state quarterfinals.
"What an outstanding journey with these two,” Simonek said. “They have been relentless in their preparation. They put it all out on the practice court and would then turn around to take advantage of extra private time. They did a phenomenal job of buying into and developing their game plan.”
For Panther Tennis, leading two doubles teams to state goes beyond skill. Simonek said his team not only put in the hours of practice it takes to compete at the highest level in Texas, but they also supported and encouraged one another throughout the season.
"This is a true tennis team in every aspect,” Simonek said. “They passionately prepare day in and day out, striving together to be the best team possible. They are invested in each other and their impact on each other's success is profound. I am blessed to be a part of their journey."
