Girls’ Tennis 2025-2026 Season Preview
The 2025-2026 academic year is an exciting one for the Pullman Greyhounds Girls’ Tennis team. Last year two notable players from the girls’ tennis team, Diana Gutierrez and Rhoda Wang, class of 2025, had made it to state; the upcoming season brings excitement to the team as newer players are introduced to the team. A handful of returning players continue to show their dominance on the court, such as newly elected team captain Katelyn Schroeder, class of 2026. After Rhoda Wang’s third time winning state, the Pullman Greyhounds Girls’ Tennis hopes to continue that momentum in their upcoming season.
Five returning players that we’ll be seeing again this season are Katelyn, Claire, Aisha, Carly, and Retal. This group of girls has been recognized for their great efforts throughout their tennis careers. They continually show true Hound spirit with both their dedication and fierce playing style. A strong new player joining this season is Alea Merwin, who brings great energy to the team. As she gains experience, she will make the team increasingly competitive. With a good mix of returning and new players, the team has continued to show how dedicated they are to the team and each other. Last season, Katelyn Schroeder and Retal Abdelatiffe went undefeated in league doubles together, showcasing their powerful dynamic as a duo and their ability to stay calm and focused in the face of challenges.
After multiple incredible seniors graduated last year, the girls’ tennis team will find challenges in fulfilling the skill sets their previous teammates possessed. Team captain Katelyn Schroeder believes that the current team will be able to bring a breath of fresh air to the team’s playing style while filling in the gaps left by last year’s seniors. A big focus for the team as of now is developing players and building experience across the lineup that they have this year. Collectively, the team’s biggest strength is how everyone puts in an overwhelming amount of effort during practice and is always trying their best to improve. The team does not let their mistakes define their abilities and views it as a way of becoming better.
Clarkston and West Valley were the two biggest matches last season. They were two of the most competitive teams in the Greater Spokane League (GSL). Those matches played a key role in deciding league standings and are the most anticipated matches for the 2026 spring season as well. The team is excited for their upcoming games and anticipates that as a unit they will reach greater heights.
Last season the team saw 11 league wins and only one league loss. Captain Katelyn Schroeder says, “Our main focus this season is to grow as a team. We’re working to develop our lineup, improve overall, and compete at a higher level in every match.” Head coach Dan Vollmer is looking forward to a season of strengthening players as well. He is excited to see where this season’s team can and will go. Come support and cheer them on at both their home and away matches!