Girls’ Tennis Aims to Build on Past Success
The girls’ tennis team took a huge step forward last year in establishing itself as one of the best squads in the area and in all of New Jersey. The Knights were regularly ranked in the top 15 in the state and claimed their first Prep B Championship since the 2010 season.
Gill looks to build upon that success as the team brings back a strong foundation of skilled players. Mayjah Jean-Pierre '21, Ella Baker '21, and Michaela Kroon '22 each won an individual title at the Prep Championships last year, and Tori Goldin ’20, along with recent graduate Andree Aloise ’19, claimed the Somerset County title in doubles.
“I feel like the possibility of a repeat for the Prep B title is a very attainable goal for us this season,” said Head Coach Patrick Hensley. “Our singles lineup is stronger than ever; they have gained some great experience over the last few seasons, and I think they can make a strong push in the county. Our doubles teams are a bit in the rebuilding process, but we’ve spent a lot of time on strategy, and they will be prepared for the upcoming season.”
Along with defending their title, the Knights will try to advance to the coveted Tournament of Champions. To qualify for this championship, Gill needs to claim the North, Non-Public B Sectional Championship. Standing in the way in recent seasons has been Newark Academy.
“Newark Academy is a powerhouse, but we were very close to defeating them last year,” said Hensley. “The girls do not like to lose, and neither do I, so we are going to give it our all to make it past that bump.”
Hensley is not the only one who believes in the Knights, as NJ.com recently selected Gill as one of the top contenders for the overall Non-Public B State championship.
“These players have a chance to do something very special this season and for the next few seasons, so we want the word to be out there and want the GSB community to know that we always appreciate their encouragement and support,” said Hensley.
Gill St. Bernard's School
Gill St. Bernard’s is a private, coeducational day school for students age three through grade 12, located in suburban New Jersey. Each of the three school divisions provides a rigorous, meaningful, and age-appropriate curriculum, and all students benefit from the environmental learning opportunities that exist on our 208-acre campus.