Dover-Sherborn Triumphs in D3 State Championship
In a high-stakes matchup at MIT on Sunday, Leah Hills of Dover-Sherborn showcased exceptional poise and skill during the Division 3 state championship against Martha’s Vineyard. With a perfect season on the line and her singles teammates having already secured victories, the pressure was palpable.
“So it’s on me,”
Hills remarked, clearly aware of the significance of her performance. At one point, she held a commanding 5-0 lead before closing the second set with a 6-2 victory, ultimately finishing the match at 6-3, 6-2 against her opponent Lain Dubin.
A Season of Recognition
Hills has been a standout all year, earning recognition as a two-time MVP in the Tri-Valley League. Her coach, Vivian Kamphaus, praised her consistency, stating,
“Leah’s been amazing all year. She’s so consistent and just rolls over people all the time.”
The Raiders concluded the season undefeated at 20-0, a remarkable feat that included only one individual loss throughout the playoffs and nine during the regular season. Coach Kamphaus, reflecting on the journey, expressed confidence in her team’s abilities from the start, saying,
“We said from the beginning of the year, it was our time. We really truly believe it. We stayed quiet and humble with it. We’re deep, we’re strong. We wanted it.”
The Championship Match
Dover-Sherborn’s depth was evident right from the start of the championship match. Freshman Sarah Ewing played at No. 3 singles, dominating her match against Charlotte Marshard with a score of 6-1, 6-0. Following her, Mia Griebel at No. 2 singles secured a 6-4, 6-0 win, pushing the Raiders closer to clinching the title. The No. 1 doubles pair, Caroline Mahoney and Grace Makkas, added to the tally with a hard-fought 6-2, 6-7, 6-1 win. Finally, the No. 2 doubles team, consisting of Emma Motley and senior Lauran Green, completed the sweep with a 6-0, 4-6, 6-4 victory.
Green noted the team’s strong camaraderie, stating,
“Everyone’s so nice and supportive of each other, and that’s really pushed us to be where we are.”
This team spirit, combined with their impressive skills, has propelled the Raiders to their championship glory.
For further updates, contact Kyle Grabowski or follow him on X (formerly Twitter). Originally covered by MetroWest Daily News, this event highlights the triumph of D-S girls’ tennis over Martha’s Vineyard to secure the D3 state title.
