North Dakota State Girls Tennis Championships
On May 31st, at the North Dakota state girls tennis championships held at Choice Health and Fitness in Grand Forks, Sarea Gu showcased her exceptional skills, ultimately taking the state singles title. The West Fargo Sheyenne sophomore triumphed over Shayna Klitzke of Dickinson with a decisive final score of 6-4, 6-1. Gu, who had previously placed third as an eighth-grader and second as a freshman, expressed her thrill at finally achieving her goal after years of striving for the championship.
“I’m very excited,”
she said, acknowledging the pressure from her past experiences in the competition.
Intense Competition
The intensity of the match was palpable, especially in the first set, where Klitzke made a strong effort to secure victory.
“The first set was definitely really tight,”
Gu reflected, commending Klitzke’s play as “absolutely amazing.” With advice from her older sister, Mimi—who is a four-time state tennis champion herself—Gu managed to maintain her focus and composure throughout the match. As she moved into the second set, Gu’s performance intensified, ultimately sealing her victory with a powerful forehand winner.
Doubles Competition
Meanwhile, in the doubles competition, Valley City sisters Skye and Kailee Nielson celebrated their own championship victory by overcoming Fargo Davies’ Tanis Lee and Grace Wanzek 6-3, 6-2 in the finals. The junior and freshman tandem had entered the tournament feeling like underdogs, especially as they faced a lineup of experienced competitors.
“We thought we were the underdogs each match,”
Skye admitted, reflecting on their unexpected success.
Their journey to the title was seamless, as they cruised through the East Region tournament and continued their winning streak in Grand Forks. The sisters recognized a shift in momentum after claiming the first set of the finals.
“I just can’t believe we won, especially with my sister. It’s insane,”
Kailee remarked.
They join a select group of Valley City tennis champions, which also includes names like Shelly Lloyd and Brenda Ament, adding their own legacy to the school’s history in athletic achievements.
Match Results
Singles Semifinals:
– Shayna Klitzke (Dickinson) over Ava Thuner (Minot) 6-3, 6-2
– Sarea Gu (Sheyenne) over Kyllie Fettig (Minot) 6-3, 4-6, 6-2
Championship:
– Sarea Gu over Shayna Klitzke 6-4, 6-1
Doubles Semifinals:
– Tanis Lee & Grace Wanzek (Davies) over Grace Olson & Lila Olson (Minot) 5-7, 6-3, 6-2
– Skye & Kailee Nielson (Valley City) over Lauren Katzung & Lilly Thomsen (Mandan) 6-0, 6-3
Championship:
– Nielson-Nielson over Lee-Wanzek 6-3, 6-2
Conclusion
In summary, the day saw remarkable displays of skill and determination, highlighting both individual and team triumphs in North Dakota’s high school tennis scene.
