By Cort Reynolds

BLUFFTON __The Bluffton High School girls tennis team fought off injuries and opposition to defeat visiting Defiance Ayersville 3-2 in a tough dual match on Tuesday, September 2.

The Pirates improved to 3-5 after the gutty win. They won two singles bouts and one doubles match to down the Pilots.

The Bluffton tandem of Peighton Bowers and Leah Hoffman won their seventh straight match at second doubles to improve to 7-1 this season.

“Leah and Peighton dominated again,” said Pirate girls head coach Trisha Nieman. “Honestly, courts 1, 2, and 3 were a masterclass in footwork and strategy. So fun to watch these players work the court with grit and focus.”

The duo triumphed 6-2, 6-3 to keep their win streak alive.

Senior Hannah Nieman was victorious at first singles 6-2, 6-1 in her return to the top spot from a shoulder injury.

“At first singles, Hannah Nieman showed a high level of drive and smart ball placement,” said the coach. “With adjustments to protect her shoulder, she took some strength off her groundstrokes and serves but leaned fully into strategy. Tennis is such a mental game, and Hannah proved that placement and focus can get it done.”

Pirate senior Claire Blackburn won 7-5, 6-1 at second singles.

“Claire Blackburn stepped up big at second singles,” said Nieman. “Sliding into the spot, she showed incredible focus and consistency, keeping the ball in play while placing her shots with precision. Her footwork was on point and set the tone for the match.”

Bluffton’s Bekah Rehm lost a tough battle at third singles by a 6-4, 7-5 count.

“Bekah Rehm showed pure grit on the court tonight,” said Nieman. “With an injury to her right wrist, she played the entire match with her left hand and never backed down. 

“Her footwork, hustle to the ball, and ability to read the angles were so impressive. Did I mention that she just picked up a racket at the end of summer for the first time?” she added.

“Even though she didn't come away with the win, Bekah's drive, determination, and coachability make us incredibly proud. What an example of heart and perseverance,” Nieman enthused.

At first doubles, the Pirate duo of Ari Bowling and Kate Klinger lost 6-1, 6-2.

“At second doubles, Leah Hoffman and Peighton Bowers continue to impress,” said Nieman. “They're showing adjustments we'd expect from experienced players but with only three months of playing time, their ability to read, react, and adapt speaks volumes about the hard work they put in this summer.”

Bluffton hosts WBL foe Shawnee (2-2) Wednesday, Sept. 3 at 4:30 p.m.