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The 2024 high school sports fall season may be drawing to a close, but the recognition of outstanding athletic performances continues. As the premier authority on Rhode Island high school sports, we are proud to announce the Providence Journal’s All-State Girls Tennis Team. This team highlights the most remarkable athletes who have excelled this season, showcasing their dedication and prowess on the court. Our rigorous selection process ensures that only the most deserving players receive this prestigious honor.
Honoring Rhode Island's Finest Female Tennis Stars
The Selection Process: A Rigorous Examination
The process of selecting the All-State Girls Tennis Team was no small feat. It required meticulous evaluation based on various criteria, including in-person observations, statistical performance, feedback from coaches, and postseason achievements. For individual sports like Cross Country and Girls Tennis, selections were primarily influenced by performances at the RIIL final events. However, for team-based sports, more deliberation was involved, considering positional roles and overall contributions to their teams.For instance, in tennis, players were chosen not just for their individual brilliance but also for how they elevated their teams. This comprehensive approach ensured that every position, from singles to doubles, was fairly represented. Recognizing all positions is crucial as it honors the diversity of skills and contributions within the sport.First Team Stars: Shining Bright on the Court
Eliza Barker, a senior from La Salle, made an indelible mark in her final year. Transitioning from doubles champion to singles powerhouse, Barker showcased remarkable adaptability and dominance. Her pivotal win against Barrington in the state championship match exemplified her leadership and skill. Although she fell short in the first round of the singles tournament, her impact on La Salle’s success was undeniable.Maddi Cameron, a sophomore from North Kingstown, experienced a meteoric rise in her second year. She quickly established herself as one of Rhode Island’s top players, leading the Skippers’ order with confidence. Cameron’s impressive debut in the state tournament, where she secured victories in the first two rounds, marked her as a formidable force for the future.Alexa Clark, a junior from South Kingstown, continued her reign of dominance. Following an undefeated season with minimal losses, Clark’s powerful play earned her back-to-back state singles titles. Her performance in the state tournament was nothing short of spectacular, solidifying her status as a legend in the making.Ellie Coker-Dodman, a junior from East Greenwich, transformed from a casual doubles player into an All-Stater. Her junior season saw her challenge even the best, pushing South Kingstown’s Alexa Clark to the limit. Coker-Dodman’s advancement in the state tournament highlighted her rapid growth and potential.Abigail Ellison, a junior from East Providence, demonstrated her versatility by switching from boys' to girls' tennis. Her transition was seamless, as she dominated Division II and reached the quarterfinals of the state singles tournament. Ellison’s performance underscored her adaptability and talent.Ava Koczera-Kasem, a senior from Barrington, concluded her career as a four-time All-Stater. Her consistency and leadership were instrumental in guiding the Eagles to the state final. Her semifinal appearance in the state singles tournament was a testament to her enduring excellence.Bianca Presciutti, a senior from La Salle, returned stronger after an injury-plagued junior year. Her key role in La Salle’s 11th consecutive state title was evident. Presciutti’s clutch performance in the RIIL singles championship, culminating in a three-set semifinal win, showcased her resilience and skill.Grace Rochelle, a senior from Rogers, earned her place on the first team with steady performances throughout her career. Her senior season was no exception, as she secured a first-round win in the state singles tournament before falling in a tough three-set match. Rochelle’s reliability made her an invaluable asset to the Vikings.Virginia Royce, a sophomore from Westerly, had a breakthrough season, contributing significantly to the Bulldogs’ Division II title. Her state singles tournament run included a notable upset win in the Round of 16. Royce’s promising start sets the stage for more achievements in the coming years.Julianna Steere, a sophomore from Ponaganset, further cemented her reputation as one of Rhode Island’s best. Her consistent excellence at the top spot for the Chieftains led to another All-State nod. Steere’s quarterfinal appearance in the state singles tournament highlighted her growing prowess.Doubles Dominance: Moira Haxton and Alessandra Roye
Moira Haxton and Alessandra Roye, both from La Salle, proved that sometimes the underdog can rise to the top. Despite not securing the top doubles spot on their own team, this duo became the best in the state. Their undefeated record at No. 2 for La Salle contributed significantly to the team’s 11th state title. Their unexpected victory in the state doubles tournament, upsetting Barrington’s top-seeded team, was a historic achievement, believed to be the first by a No. 2 doubles pair.Second Team Honorees: Rising Talent
The Second Team recognizes a cadre of rising stars who showed immense promise. Players like Alexis Besio from East Greenwich and Brooke Caffrey from Narragansett brought depth and skill to their respective teams. Lincy Chen from Lincoln School and Kaylin Flynn from Cranston West demonstrated exceptional talent in their sophomore and junior years. Lily Goodwin from Bay View and Ambujam Lohman from Narragansett added variety and strength to their lineups. Mia Renzulli from Prout and Tess Ruhren from South Kingstown showcased their potential, while Sadie Spector from Barrington and Claire Xie from Providence Country Day provided valuable contributions.In doubles, Addy Friedman and Jasmine Malik from Barrington emerged as a formidable pair, adding to the rich tapestry of Rhode Island’s tennis scene. These players represent the future of the sport, ready to take on new challenges and continue the legacy of excellence.