Mars Area Girls Tennis Sweeps Baldwin, 5-0, as Singles Standouts Prepare for Section Doubles

Mars Area’s girls tennis team swept Baldwin, 5-0, with a new doubles pairing giving coach Mark Varlotta an early look at his plans for next week’s section doubles tournament.

Junior Gianna Kampian and senior Elaina Riegler won 6-0, 6-0 at first doubles in their first match as partners. Kampian has played first singles for Mars this season, while Riegler has played second singles.

“I think that they give us the best chance to go and win at section doubles next week,” Varlotta said. “I wanted to get them some practice together before next week’s tournament.”

Varlotta said Riegler played doubles in previous seasons before moving into the singles lineup this year. He was pleased with how the two played together against Baldwin.

Grace Nam won 6-1, 6-1 at first singles. Ella Ostapchenko took second singles 6-0, 6-2, and sophomore Nila Van Wyk won third singles 6-0, 6-0. Madison Cawley and Lydia Arnold completed the sweep with a 6-0, 6-0 win at second doubles.

The win improved Mars Area to 9-2 overall and 5-2 in section play, coach Mark Varlotta confirmed.

Mars graduated three starters after last season, but younger players have stepped into the lineup. Varlotta said four sophomores are among this year’s starters, including Ostapchenko and Van Wyk.

The Baldwin win continues the team’s momentum as it approaches postseason play. Mars has section matches against Butler and Shaler remaining, followed by a senior night match against North Catholic.

“They’ve been grinding all year and winning close matches all year,” Varlotta said. “It’s a testament to them just kind of not giving up and having a gritty attitude.”