Impressive shut-out wins over region rival Liberty County on Monday gave the RHHS boys and girls tennis teams a strong shot at placing high in the region and gaining a state playoff berth.

The girls posted a 5-0 victory all in two sets. Emily Stephens was the first off the court at No. 1 singles. Emily controlled all points and held serve in every game. Fiona Baer, at the No. 2 slot controlled both the net and the baseline in her game. No. 3 singles, Sofia Donleavy, gave the Wildcats the winning point for the match in a quick 2 setter.

Equally as impressive were the girls No. 1 and 2 doubles. Christina Rodriguez and partner Lauren Trivitayakhun dominated both sets with few unforced errors and challenging net play. Nicole Dupasquier and Emily Li, both freshmen, showed maturity as "they played patient and flawless tennis," according to Coach Pat Paruso. The girls are now 2-0 in the Region and are looking forward to upcoming on the road challenges against Burke County and Hepzibah.

"As for the boys, they continued improving and showed diversity and depth in the line-up," Paruso said.

Senior Michael Zhu continued his winning ways and added the first point to an eventual 5-0 win for the team. Ted Noonburg showed that he wanted a spot in the starting line-up with his steady play and a 2 set win. Huy Phan, who has been used as a utility player, showed his worth in a 25 minute 2-set win. The 1 and 2 doubles boys had no problem adding the 4th and 5th points for the group.

"Nic Balas and Ethan Lane proved again that they may be the best doubles team in Georgia," Paruso said. "Kyle Guither and John Rush showed equal talent all in 2 sets."

Paruso said his JV girls and boys showed future promise. Standouts included girls Trang Lam and Kristen Quon and boys Tom Capocasale and Minh Phan - all winning in their number 3 doubles action.