Eight players to watch on the tennis court

BISMARCK – The 2025 WDA boys’ tennis season is underway. There are a lot of talented players in the conference. Here are eight to keep an eye on this fall.

Bismarck High, Reed Romsaas: The sophomore enters the top spot in the Demons’ lineup and enters his third season of varsity play. A state qualifier a season ago, he has embraced the challenge of facing the top players in the conference each match and put a lot of work in the offseason to prepare. Romsaas will be a key part in the squad’s rebuilding efforts.

Bismarck Century, Ryan Mullally: The junior has moved into the top spot in the Patriots lineup. This marks his third season of varsity play and he’s known for his scrappy play and hustle on every point. His quickness, court sense and hands keep in every match. He’s a two-time state qualifier in doubles play. Mullally, who attends Bismarck St. Mary’s, has a great work ethic and puts in the extra time to improve his skills.

Bismarck Legacy, Connor Svihovec: The junior is coming off a breakthrough season where he earned all-conference honors with a fourth place finish in singles play at the region tournament and cracking the top eight at the state event. He begins his third season on the Sabers varsity and filling the top spot. He has been a part of some talented Legacy teams over the past few seasons, including a conference champion in 2023. As one of the veterans, his consistent play and leadership will be counted upon to keep Legacy’s winning tradition going.

Jamestown, Luke LeFevre: The senior has steadily emerged as one of the top players in the conference. His serve is the hardest to return in the conference and he has developed a good net game. He, like many top players in the WDA, works on his game throughout the offseason to sharpen his play. This is second season he has held the top spot in the Blue Jays rotation.

Mandan, Jared Christen: The junior enters his fourth year of varsity play and was the singles runner-up at last year’s West Region Tournament. The all-stater enters this season as the top-ranking player in the WDA and possesses a strong all-around game. It’s hard to find any weaknesses in Christen’s game as he displays an effective serve, steady ground strokes and superb net play. He finished sixth at the state individual tournament and is expected to be a strong contender this season.

Minot High, Oliver Thompson: The three-year letterwinner is the lone senior in the Magi varsity lineup. His positive energy and work ethic are leadership traits that will benefit a youthful squad. Thompson has proven to be comfortable in both singles and doubles play. That versatility has enabled him to be a valuable part of the Magicians string of success at region and state competitions.  

Minot North, Colton Griffith: The freshmen is one of the young and talented players who make up the Sentinel roster. His strong tennis IQ enables him to make quick reads on where to place balls and put his opponent on the defensive. He never quits on a ball and his positive attitude and a will to improve rub off on his teammates.

Williston, Kane Shannon: The senior is among a big group of veterans on the Coyote squad who have developed a tight bond. He’s a leave-it-all-on-the-court-player who plays with intensity and emotion. He’s a multi-sport athlete who thrives on competing. And that provides inspiration for his fellow teammates. 

Photo: Jared Christen, Mandan