ROCKINGHAM — Nearing the end of the fall sports season in The Richmond Observer’s feature series, the Richmond Senior High School girls’ tennis team is next up in the spotlight.
A successful season for the Lady Raiders and head coach Jessica Covington culminated in one player’s postseason run.
Hanna Smith, a four-year starter for the Lady Raiders, took her role as Richmond’s No. 1 singles player seriously during her senior season. As a result, she finished second overall in the Sandhills Athletic Conference championship tournament, which punched her ticket to regionals.
Competing at the NCHSAA 4A Mideast regional tournament, Smith capped her career by winning her first career regional match. That advanced her to day two of the event.
Reread the complete article from Oct. 21, 2024 below:
Smith advances to second day of 4A tennis regionals
CHAPEL HILL — Hanna Smith was the lone representative for Richmond Senior High School girls’ tennis team during this season’s playoffs.
Ending her four-year playing career for the Lady Raiders, Smith competed in the North Carolina High School Athletic Association 4A Mideast regional tournament.
Held at Chapel Hill High School, Smith advanced in Friday’s opening round before facing elimination during the second round Saturday.
“I am really glad I got the opportunity to represent Richmond at regionals,” Smith said. “There was a lot of talent out there and I was super proud of the way I played, especially since I didn’t start playing until my freshman year.
“Compared to most girls who have been playing since they were young, I think I had a great performance despite not having as much experience,” she added. “I’m sad it’s over but I couldn’t have asked for a better way to end my tennis career.”
In the opening round, Smith faced Chloe Hall of Gray’s Creek High School. Playing the best-of-three sets, Smith advanced 2-0. Set scores were 6-2 and 6-1.
Returning for day two of the competition, Smith ran into a tougher opponent in Laura Gomez of Panther Creek High School.
This time Smith was defeated in straight sets and exited the tournament. Gomez won by scores of 6-0 and 6-0.
“I’m really proud of Hanna,” head coach Jessica Covington said. “She has been a valued member of our program for four years and earned her spot to compete against some of the best tennis players in the state.
“I know she may be disappointed that she didn’t advance deeper into the tournament, but she represented Richmond so well,” she closed. “We are going to miss having her leadership on the court next year.”
