Seven to watch on the tennis court

BISMARCK – Court is now in session for WDA boys’ tennis and there are several capable players who can hold their own. Here’s a look at some of the standout ball strikers in the WDA.

BISMARCK HIGH: TYLER WAHL

The senior has been playing varsity matches since eighth grade and is coming off a break out season where he finished third in singles play at the West Region Tournament. The all-WDA selection also qualified for state as a sophomore. 

It will be hard-pressed to find another WDA player in as better shape as Wahl with the exception perhaps of teammate, Gabe Hanson.  Both are standouts on the Demon cross country squad. In fact, both were all-state runners a season ago.

Wahl has participated in tournaments in the offseason to improve his play, and aside from his excellent conditioning, takes his leadership role seriously. He has organized drills for his team during the off season. And his excellence extends to the classroom, as he is an honor student.

BISMARCK CENTURY: JARED PITCHER

The senior is among the best all-around players in the conference. Pitcher is quite comfortable playing along the baseline or being at the net. His aggressive net play has been most impactful and his keen awareness of when to move forward or stay back on points. The all-WDA selection the past three seasons has played varsity matches since his eighth grade and has been the squad’s top singles player in each of the past four seasons. That experience has led to him staying cool under pressure. Pitcher is busy during the offseason, competing in tournaments to continue his progression as a player. He also engages his young teammates, providing encouragement. During the past few summers, he’s coordinated drill nights for his teammates. Pitcher is also a winner in the classroom and takes his academics as seriously as his play on the court.

BISMARCK LEGACY: BRAYDEN RUFF

The senior has developed into a solid all-around player for the Saber program. Ruff’s versatility enables him to be a capable singles and doubles player. Now in his third year as a varsity regular, Ruff is Exhibit A on how hard work pays off. He spent a tremendous amount of time during in the offeseason improving his play. He also ran drills for his teammates during the summer. Ruff was an all-WDA selection a season ago and has qualified for the past two state tournaments in doubles. One of his strengths is his first serve as well as staying in rallies from the baseline and finishing points at the net. Like many standout players, Ruff’s success isn’t limited to the court as he is an outstanding student. 

JAMESTOWN: KAI BACKEN

The senior is in his third year on the Blue Jays varsity and is currently in the No. 1 singles position. He qualified for last year’s state individual tournament. Backen’s leadership is on display at practices, helping younger players improve skills. In addition to playing in the off season, Kai coaches youth tennis. Perhaps his strongest asset is his drive to compete and experience. The multi-sport athlete also excels in the classroom where he is an A student.

MANDAN: RYAN BITZ

Tennis wasn’t a sport that Bitz jumped into initially, but his presence is much welcomed in the Braves lineup. The junior is just in his second year of play, but his athleticism has enabled him to make a smooth transition to the sport. His positive attitude and leadership have already rubbed off on younger players in the program. Last year he played in a handful of varsity matches and now has worked his way up into the Braves’ varsity lineup. And like many standouts, he is good student.

MINOT HIGH: GRAYSON SCHAEFFER

The junior is one of the most athletic players in the Magi lineup, but his value extends beyond his individual play. Schaeffer engages his younger teammates regardless of their place in the program. That willingness to support and follow his teammates development is a reason he’s well respected. His effort level in both practice and in matches also grabs the attention of his teammates. A multi-sport athlete, Schaffer standouts out, literally. His 6-4 frame enables him to cover the court quickly. He has been an all-conference selection in each of the past two seasons.

WILLISTON: KALLON DELORME

Just a sophomore, but DeLorme has showed promise in his game. He saw limited varsity play a season ago for the Coyotes, including participating in doubles play at the West Region Tournament. He will play a larger role this season in the lineup. The multi-sport athlete has good form with his strokes and the right attitude to be an effective player.  Kallon also excels in the classroom.

Photo: Jared Pitcher, Century