By Cort Reynolds

BLUFFTON__The Bluffton High School girls tennis team prevailed in its home opener against visiting Defiance and the weather by posting an exciting 3-2 comeback victory on Tuesday, August 12.

The first win of the season upped the Bluffton record to 1-1 this season.

“What a way to open the home season,” said Pirate head coach Trisha Nieman. “Our team came ready to fight, and they brought home the victory in front of the home crowd.”

At second singles, Pirate junior Ari Bowling rallied from an 0-4 deficit in the first set to win 7-5, 6-2. “Ari showed grit and determination and stormed back,” said Nieman. “She then carried that momentum into the second set for a solid 6-2 win.

“A true comeback performance that set the tone for the rest of the day,” she noted. “

Senior Willow Angel made her third singles debut and posted a decisive 6-1, 6-2 victory. “She covered the court beautifully, chasing down shots in every corner and keeping her opponent on the move.”

With senior Hannah Nieman out due to a sore shoulder, junior Kate Klinger stepped into the first singles spot for the initial time and lost 6-2, 6-1.  

“Even though it was a tough loss, she stayed positive, kept hustling and gained valuable experience at the top spot,” noted Nieman.

Bluffton’s senior first doubles duo of Claire Blackburn and Maizie Digby lost 6-1, 6-2. 

“They didn’t get the win but they fought hard every point,” the coach said. “Their positive attitude and willingness to learn will serve them well as the season goes on. They are growing as a doubles team and showing they can compete with anyone.” 

With the overall match tied 2-2, the Pirate second doubles team of sophomore Peighton Bowers and freshman Leah Hoffman then rallied to deliver the match-clinching 3-6, 6-2, 7-5 victory. 

With their backs to the wall after a 40-minute weather stoppage, the duo won the final five games to pull out the clutch win.

“It was an epic battle,” said Nieman. “After dropping the first set 3-6, they bounced back with a 6-2 win in the second set.

“In the decisive set, they were down 2-5 when rain interrupted play for 10 minutes, followed by a 30-minute weather delay,” she continued. “The pause only fueled their determination – they returned to the court and rallied for a 7-5 victory!

“Their communication, adjustments and execution were outstanding,” Nieman added. “Coach McClure and I are incredibly proud of the team’s fight, positivity and teamwork. What a start to our home season.”

The Pirates entertained Western Buckeye League foe Bath on Wednesday while Clyde visits Bluffton on Friday at 5 p.m. The Pirates also host Ottawa Hills Saturday at 10 a.m. to finish a four-match homestand this week.