With a roster of 22 players this season, the Mehlville girls tennis team is looking to have a successful 2026 campaign.

“We have a handful of people returning from last year, and after our two seniors, everything is kind of wide open in our lineup,” Mehlville head coach Jill Wojewuczki said. “This is the biggest group of kids that we’ve had in several years.”

Senior Samantha Allsworth is an academic all-state selection who is slated to be one of the Panthers’ top players this season.

“Samantha’s been playing tennis since the eighth grade, and she’s been on the varsity team the last couple of years,” Wojewuczki said. “She’s very competitive and has improved her consistency in the offseason. She’s definitely built a solid skill set these last four years.”

Edina Muminovic spent time refining her game in the offseason, and the Panthers head coach has definitely taken notice of her improvements.

“Edina is another one that plays in the offseason, and she’s improved her shots and has gotten a lot stronger,” Wojewuczki said. “She’ll play singles as well as doubles with Samantha.”

Addyson Ellis is a soccer player who’s taken up tennis and will see action in singles and doubles this season.

“This is her second year playing tennis, but she’s an athlete with a great attitude,” Wojewuczki said. “She hustles and has that competitive spirit.”

Senior Laina Bess returns for her fourth season with the Panthers.

“Laina’s been with us since she was a freshman, and she’s a very vocal team leader for us,” Wojewuczki said. “She’s very coachable and always wants to find ways to improve.”

Emma Mueller is a junior who returns for her second season at Mehlville.

“This is Emma’s second year on the team, and she always comes to practice with a great attitude,” Wojewuczki said. “I have the feeling that she’s going to be one of our top six players on the team this year. She’ll also probably play doubles with Addy.”

The Panthers start their 2026 season at home on Aug. 27 against Lutheran South.