Mules’ tennis advance in district tournament

Survive and advance.

The Poplar Bluff Mules tennis team advanced to the second round of the Class 2, District 1 Team Tennis Tournament with a shutout win over Festus High 5-0 on Monday at PBHS.

After a rocky start, coach Michael Sowatzke said his main focus was to allow his team to grow as players and get them as ready as possible for the postseason.

With already facing a few members of Festus, Sowatzke didn’t want the Mules to lose focus and rely on previous success.

“We defeated some of Festus at our last district tournament, but I knew we had to stay aware that this team could take points if we took them for granted,” Sowatzke said. “Despite the final score, Festus is a great team with some good hitters, but I’m pleased with how we executed today.”

Doubles:

Poplar Bluff’s Angelo Sorrentino and Alejandro Rivetti defeated Connor Zustiak and Elaine Coplin 8-1, Tavian Towns and Aiden Castillo def. Festus’ Regan Hanewinkel and Lilly Besore 8-0 and Carson Todd and Issac Cato def. Ava Beers and Colby Bailey 8-1.

Singles:

Poplar Bluff’s Sorrentino def. Zustiak 6-2 and 6-3, while Towns def. Coplin 6-0 and 6-1.

The Mules will travel to Notre Dame at 4:00 p.m. Tuesday to face the Bulldogs in the Class 2, District 1 Team Tennis Tournament Semifinals.