Polson Tennis strives to rebuild with young, eager squad

As the 2025 spring tennis season gets underway, the Polson Pirates and Lady Pirates find themselves in an unfamiliar position – rebuilding. For the first time in 19 years, the program lacks a returning all-conference player, but head coach Bob Hislop remains optimistic about the potential of his young squad.

"This is definitely a rebuilding year," Hislop said. "We have one senior girl and three senior boys and no returning all-conference players for the first time in 19 years."

Despite that, Polson tennis boasts a roster filled with promising athletes eager to make their mark on the program. Anyone who has seen this program perform in the past, knowns both Bob and Donna Hislop can develop great tennis players.

While experience at the top level may be limited, Hislop sees his team’s grasp of the game and willingness to learn as key assets.

"Our team’s strengths will be their knowledge of the game and ability to take the experience in matches they have played, learn from it, and go to work on what it takes to get better,” he said. “They are eager to learn and improve."

The competition will be tough this season. Whitefish is expected to have strong boys’ and girls’ squads, while Libby features returning boys’ singles state champion Ryan Beagle. Polson will need to rely on its developing talent and adaptability to compete at the highest level.

With a mix of experienced players and up-and-coming talent, Polson tennis enters the season with a growth mindset. In their first time out this season, the girls secured two victories while the boys split two matchups against Western A tennis teams.

Boys Team: A Competitive Core

Leading the charge for the boys’ team are Ruger Ellis and Branson Moss, two experienced competitors who have dedicated significant time to their development. Hislop believes their hard work will translate to success on the court.

"They both have lots of experience and have put in a ton of time on their games," Bob Hislop said.

Other varsity mainstays include Max Violett, Teague McElwee, Strider Gage, Truman Sawyer, and Marcus Lucas, who bring solid depth and reliability to the team. Newcomers Parker Hendrickson and Zayne Newman are also expected to contribute, rounding out a group that Hislop sees as poised for growth throughout the season.

Girls Team: Young but talented

While the Lady Pirates are returning some solid players, youth remains a defining characteristic of this squad.

Returning varsity players Josie Hendrickson, Vivian Grainey, Maddie Lake, Baylee Lemm, Hinkley Moss, Greta Lund, and Karly Smith will form the foundation of the team. Hislop is expecting freshman standouts Alexa Kinaman and Johanna Bieber to crack the varsity lineup early.

One key player looking for a strong season is Summer Newman. After placing at divisionals as a sophomore but not making the podium last year, Newman is focused for her junior season.

"We are hoping for a nice bounce-back season for her," Hislop said.