By Cort Reynolds

ST. MARYS__The visiting Bluffton High School girls tennis team defeated St. Marys 3-2 in a non-league match on Tuesday, August 26.

Bluffton swept both doubles matches and one singles bout to earn the close win.

The victory upped the Bluffton record to 2-4 this season. The Roughriders fell to 1-4 with the defeat.

Hannah Nieman and Kate Klinger teamed up to win at first doubles by a 6-0, 7-6 (7-5) score in a second-set tiebreaker.

“It was a special night as Hannah made her return from a shoulder injury,” said Bluffton head coach Trisha Nieman. “She and Kate Klinger teamed up at first doubles for a win. 

“Heartfelt with lots of smiles, great spots, and plenty of racket taps,” she continued. “Hannah is still on the mend, so this comeback will be a steady journey, but what a start.”

Pirate Bekah Rehm won 6-1, 6-0 at third singles.

“Bekah stepped into third singles for just her second varsity match, coming out with a strong win,” said Nieman. “She showed serious hustle and dropped in some amazing ace serves that had her opponent with little points.”

At second doubles, the Pirate duo of Peighton Bowers and Leah Hoffman brought home a 6-2, 6-3 victory to improve to 5-1 this year. 

“These two are proving to be a force,” Nieman enthused. “Leah is dominating at the net, while Peighton is steady, keeping shots out of the alley. Their growth as a team is so fun to watch.”

Ari Bowling lost at first singles, and Willow Angel fell 6-3, 6-4 at second singles.

Bluffton visits tough WBL foe Wapakoneta (7-1) on Wednesday, Aug. 27. The Redskin girls beat LCC 3-2 Tuesday, and have won six in a row.