Xavier swinging for state title

CEDAR RAPIDS - Many athletes across the state are in a period of rest and relaxation after their winter sports came to an end, some preparing their bodies for spring activities.

For the Cedar Rapids Xavier girls' tennis team, however, an off-season full of hard work and endless practice has prepared the team to start the season strong.

Last year, the team qualified for state and with senior Allison Jasper placing third in singles as a junior. That is impressive for any team and an achievement any player would be proud of, but the belief among the team is they have not yet reached their full potential.

Actions speak louder than words, and these girls did not take the off-season for granted.

'In the off-season, I have taken private lessons, gone to clinics, and played in some tournaments to prepare for the season,” Jasper said. 'We have five returning varsity players so we are really excited to see what the season has in store.”

Two of those returning players are the Bouchard twins, Claire and Jeanne, who are coming off a season where they emerged as a powerful doubles team and were a big part of the team's overall success. Juniors Katie Neumeyer and Megan D'Mello also are back with valuable playing experience at the varsity level.

The team shares one goal this season and that is to win a state championship.

The season goes into full swing April 6 against Waterloo Columbus.