By David Steinbacher
Herald Staff Report
(From the issue of 4/29/04)

The Bishop Ireton Cardinals boys tennis team is having a solid season in 2004. The Cardinals, coached by Mike Hutton, have an overall record of 6-5 (6-4 in WCAC action).

Ireton, fourth in the WCAC last season, has defeated PVI twice, Good Counsel twice, St. Mary’s Ryken and McNamara. Ireton has dropped narrow decisions to O’Connell and St. John’s.

The Cardinals varsity roster consists of three seniors and five juniors. Senior tri-captains Mike Bruce, Chris Gallagher and Adam Martin play singles #2, 3 and 4 respectively.

"Mike is a real character guy who cares for the entire team. He competes every time out to his best," said Hutton. "Chris makes coaching real worthwhile. He has achieved a lot of success in a short period of time. Adam has had his share of adversity this season, but he has bee a real inspiration to all of his teammates."

Juniors H.B. Choe, David Maiers and Colin Deyman man the singles #1, 5 and 6 positions. Deyman leads the team with an overall 9-1 individual record. Maiers (7-3), Bruce (7-4) and Gallagher (6-3) follow closely behind in winning percentage.

"My lob has really improved this season and I’m also pretty fast on my feet," said Deyman.

In terms of doubles, all three Cardinal "duets" have winning records. Juniors David Bury and Brian Samson lead the team with an overall mark of 7-1.

"David and Brian are both strong servers and they are better than average volleyers," said Hutton.

"We missed some early opportunities," he said. "Hopefully, the experience that we gained in those setbacks will turn in our favor during the tournament. All in all, it’s been a very nice season."

Ireton concludes the regular season with matches against McNamara, Gonzaga and St. Mary’s Ryken. The WCAC tournament will be held in College Park, Md.