Xavier’s Nina Marquardt ready for sophomore season

CEDAR RAPIDS - Xavier sophomore Nina Marquardt admits last season was a little intimidating.

Marquette was a freshman on the Saints' girls' tennis team, playing varsity singles and doubles.

'It was intimidating at the beginning of the season, but they were very welcoming,” she said of her older teammates. 'I quickly began to feel like part of the team.”

The seniors helped her improve her skills and Marquardt also put in a lot of hard work, which helped her excel to the varsity level. Even through the tough losses, she stayed positive and hopeful throughout the season.

'It was fun to have Nina on the team,” senior Ellie Detweiler said. 'I thought it was really inspiring to freshmen that someone who practices and made an effort at their sport could make it on varsity.

'It was great having her on the team and I can't wait to play with her this year.”

Marquardt is looking forward to improving on las season and playing with her teammates again this year.

The Saints' season begins April 4 and they have one thing in mind - getting back to state and winning.

Xavier lost to Waterloo Columbus, 5-0, in last year's Class 1A team finals, finishing the season 13-8.

The team's goal is to be the 2016 state champions through dedication and hard work.