Polson tennis team displays character in Cut Bank

Polson coach Bob Hislop likes it when his team has to play events that involve more extensive travel like his team did this week at the Cut Bank Invitational.

Hislop said he felt his team builds “additional character” and he also gets a chance to see what his team is made of facing less than favorable weather conditions and longer road conditions.

Hislop said he was able to learn a lot about the character of his team as they continue to utilize the regular season as a tune-up for districts, Divisionals, and state in May.

“Cut Bank was a really good weekend and I think the kids showcased their character,” Hislop said. “They really showed their ability to handle tough situations and travel on the road in motels. A coach gets to see what kids can handle it and what kids can’t.”

Hislop said his team had to battle the elements with winds gusting at 30 to 40 MPH.

During the limited play, both the boys and girls finished with an unblemished combined record of 8-0.

Hislop said he was “impressed” with the way his No. 1 players, Cassie Carlyle and Colin Kenney, responded to the adversity.

“Cassie handled the adversity extremely well and played her matches like there was no problem,” Hislop said. “She even played doubles once and had a really nice weekend.”

Hislop said he was also “impressed” with the play of Sophia Speckert on the girls side.

“She won every match that she had,” Hislop said.

The Pirates’ Sam Schultz also finished with a 3-1.

“For a lot of the girl varsity players, we are seeing for the first time who can handle it and who can’t,” Hislop said. “It’s a very cool thing.”