Girls tennis/Elgin Academy preview

Elgin Academy Hilltoppers

Coach: Greg Repede

Conference: Independent School League

2011 dual meet record: 13-6-2

Top returning players: Seniors Jordan Kaufman, Sedona Georgescu; Juniors Sofia Skok, Makena Barickman, Jordan Yavari; Sophomore Kayla Schwan

Top newcomers: Freshman Emma May; Junior Hanna Ivanovich

Season outlook: The Hilltoppers return some experience to the court this season to threaten for state berths. “This year we’ll be looking to again finish over .500,” said coach Greg Repede. “Yavari and Schwan return at No. 1 and No. 2 singles respectively. Yavari will look to use her experience at No. 1.” Schwan returns as one of EA’s best No. 2 players, currently second in all-time wins to Yavari. Kaufman was one half of last year’s state finals qualifying doubles team. She will finish her career as EA’s all-time leader in doubles wins. She will team with Barickman at No. 1 doubles this season. Veterans Skok and Georgescu will play No. 2 and Ivanovich and May No. 3. The ISL is very strong top to bottom with a number of returning state finals qualifiers including the two-time defending state singles champion. “Once again we have a good-sized program for a small school — 21 players,” Repede said. “We have a good group of newcomers, outstanding senior leadership and great girls to work with.”