On May 14, 2025, the Lebanon High School Raiders girls tennis team emerged victorious against the Kearsarge Cougars at Maxfield Sports Complex. This hard-fought match saw the Raiders overcoming a challenging schedule break and weather disruptions to secure their seventh win of the season. The match was notable for individual performances as well as strategic doubles victories that ultimately tipped the scales in favor of Lebanon.
After enduring weeks without competition due to adverse weather conditions and differing school vacation schedules, the Raiders faced off against the Cougars in an NHIAA D-III encounter. Despite these challenges, the team showcased resilience and skill, with standout players such as Laura Hines leading the charge. Coach Rob Johnstone praised the athletes' focus, particularly highlighting the comeback by juniors Payton Breedlove and Nina Ellingson in the third doubles match, which clinched the overall victory for Lebanon.
Senior Laura Hines, one half of the dynamic Hines sibling duo, played a pivotal role in this triumph. Her singles match victory contributed significantly to the Raiders' early lead. Although her doubles partnership with Mari Utell narrowly missed out on securing another point, Laura remained undeterred. Speaking after the game, she acknowledged areas for improvement while celebrating the team’s collective effort.
The Hines family has become synonymous with tennis excellence at Lebanon High School. Alongside Laura, her twin brother Kyle excels on the boys’ team. Their father Rick, a passionate tennis enthusiast, has been instrumental in nurturing their talents from a young age. Laura's rapid ascent from the No. 6 singles player last year to the top spot this season underscores her dedication and growth under his guidance.
Beyond Laura's achievements, other key players like Amalia Mladek and Samyra Graber also delivered strong performances during singles matches, reinforcing the depth of talent within the team. These efforts were crucial in maintaining Lebanon's undefeated streak, now standing at 7-0, amidst a demanding week that saw them play multiple games consecutively.
As the Raiders continue their journey through the season, they remain focused on honing their skills and adapting to various competitive scenarios. With upcoming fixtures against Prospect Mountain and Sanborn, the team aims to build upon this latest success and solidify their position as formidable contenders in the league.
