By Matt Browning

Conway Springs was chosen as the Wichita Small School Preseason Boys Tennis Team of the Month. The Cardinals received 376 votes, which was more than 98 percent of the overall vote.

“It is very nice to be back on the courts,” Conway Springs coach Chris Bellar said. “Last year ended abruptly and was very, very disappointing. We had a championship caliber team with nine seniors.”

This year’s team will be one of the most inexperienced teams in recent memory for Conway Springs. The Cardinals have just five players who have competed in varsity meets before.

“A successful season this year will first be marked by us completing the season,” Bellar said. “After that, getting several entries to the state tournament would be great. Part of the joy this season will be seeing each player improve, in some cases from just picking up a racquet.”

While Conway Springs will be lacking in experience, the cupboard isn’t entirely bare.

“I do have four seniors who should help provide some leadership,” Bellar said. “Colby Osner will be the player to watch. He lettered two years ago as a sophomore, was coming on last season, and has really worked hard in the offseason on his game. I am looking forward to seeing his play this year for sure. Aiden May and Seth Ohl also have experience and will be needed to step up, possibly as a double team, for us to be competitive.”