Eight to watch on the tennis court

BISMARCK – The WDA has its share of talented players on the court. Several teams return experienced players who have been in their share of high-stake matches. Here’s a look at eight players to keep an eye on this fall.

Bismarck High: Quinton Wolf
The senior led off-season workouts in the summer to prepare the squad. That commitment to his team, especially helping a big group of underclassmen moving up to high school-level matches, shows is commitment to the Demon program. This season Wolf will be thrust into a more challenging spot in the lineup, playing against top-ranked players. He played in all six BHS dual regular season matches in 2023, winning a pair. 

Bismarck Century: Charlie Holzer
The senior is anchoring the No. 1 spot in the Patriots lineup this season. A big challenge knowing he has to play his best each match to have a chance of winning against quality opponents. He’s been a regular on the varsity the past three seasons and his gritty play has made him a consistent contributor for the program. Last season, Holzer earned all-conference honors in doubles.

Bismarck Legacy: Caleb Johnson
The senior was an all-WDA and all-state player a season ago in doubles play. He was part of a team that was runner-up at the region tournament and third at the state tournament. He also qualified for state singles play as a sophomore. 
The multi-sport athlete will be the Sabers’ No. 1 player. He is particularly strong at the baseline and is tremendously competitive, not giving up on any point.

Jamestown: Luke LeFevre
The junior is the top-ranked player in the Blue Jay lineup and the most experienced. His serve is a strength and he is comfortable at the baseline as well as at the net. He spent a great deal of time during the offseason to become a strong player. He was a state qualifier two seasons ago in doubles play.

Mandan: Karter Hatzenbuhler
The senior has the been the Braves’ No. 1-ranked player since his eighth grade season. He has plenty of big-match experience during his time in the program. He won a region doubles title in 2022 and was runner-up at state that fall. Last year, he finished runner-up at the West Region Tournament in singles play. Over the years he’s improved in his decision making on the court and keeping his opponents off balance with his shot placement.

Minot High: Aidan Diehl
The senior may be the most experience player in the conference, entering his sixth season playing varsity matches. He has part of two West Region doubles titles, including last fall with fellow senior Grayson Schaeffer. The pair were also runner-up at the state tournament to earn all-state honors as well.The multi-sport athlete will fill one of the top spots in the lineup. His athleticism and strong net play make him a formidable opponent.

Minot North: Brayden Callahan
The seventh grader will be facing players with multiple years of varsity experience, but he already has the makings of a future standout. He won’t give up on points and his tenacious work ethic and quickness will enable him to be competitive and push his opponents. His best days are still ahead of him, but the experience gained this year will be invaluable for the young Sentinel program.

Williston: Kallon DeLorme
The sophomore gained a ton of experience a season ago in the Williston lineup and he’s expected to continue to take another big step in his development this season. His five wins in WDA dual matches led the squad. DeLorme possesses good mechanics and decision making which enables him to stay in points. His positive attitude and coachability make him a great member of the program.

Photo: Aidan Diehl, Minot High