Bullpups show resilience through five rain delays at Doug Gayer Classic before play suspended
McPherson Girls Tennis Tournament Cancelled Due to Weather
The McPherson High School girls tennis team's Doug Gayer Classic was cancelled Tuesday evening after five weather delays made it impossible to complete matches at a reasonable hour, despite strong individual performances from several Bullpups.
Tournament officials called off play at 7:30pm under the lights after persistent rain created unsafe playing conditions throughout the day. Two extended delays required rolling courts and using fans and blowers to dry surfaces, but the fifth stoppage proved to be the final obstacle with some visiting teams still facing 3.5 to 4 hours of travel time.
Several McPherson players were in strong positions when play was suspended. Maryn led her semifinal match 3-0, while Quinn and Avery stood undefeated at 3-0 and were set for the doubles championship match. Dragon and Lleyton were 2-0 and awaiting their semifinal opponents.
Audra and Sadie were locked in a tight 7-7 quarterfinal battle heading into a tiebreaker that would have potentially put three McPherson doubles teams in the semifinals. McKenna had rebounded from a difficult opening match and was working toward the consolation final.
Despite the challenging conditions, the team maintained a positive attitude throughout the extended day. Erin Olson and Avery Eveland posted a 3-1 record and were positioned to compete for fifth place after dropping a tough 8-6 quarterfinal match.
"I thought the tournament went well, all things considered," said coach Tyler Brown. "Our team never made excuses. We showed up ready to play all day long. I was proud of how the girls rose to the occasion at the Doug Gayer Classic, especially considering I didn't feel we had a very sharp practice the day before."
The team will take a group to Wichita Collegiate Saturday for the Tournament of Champions, where they'll compete against state champions and runners-up from multiple classifications.
Greg Loving
Sponsors (click me!)
Found a mistake? Have a news tip or feedback to share? Contact our newsroom using the button below: