Briones, Getts top singles seeds for divisional tennis

The field is set, and state qualifying bids are on the line in Libby as the Northwestern A divisional tennis tournament start today at 10 a.m.

Libby’s Walter Briones and Cody Wood are the first and third seeds, while Whitefish’s Max Smyley and Nathan Fauth are seeded second and fourth in singles play, respectively.

In boys doubles, Polson’s Quaid Harlan and Colin Kenney are the top- seeded pair while teammates Cadis Chowning and Tommy Mercer are third.

“The boys race will be fun,” Polson coach Bob Hislop said. “I think if you played the tournament three different times, three different teams would win it.”

On the girls side, Emily Getts of Columbia Falls is the top-seeded singles player. Polson’s Marla Congdon, Libby’s Kaylene Hudson and Whitefish’s Keara Delaney round out the singles seeding.

The Lady Pirates boast the first and third seeds in doubles action. Cassie Carlyle and Olivia Hewston are in the top spot. They’ll be challenged by second seeded Heather Luedke and Hannah Madsen of Whitefish.

“I think the trick is keeping confident without getting a big head. I know my two girls aren’t going to be wowed by their success,” Hislop said. “Those two teams are just kids who like to go out and hit the ball around.”

Play continues Friday starting at 8 a.m.