With several all-conference selections returning for the 2023 season, the Mehlville girls tennis team is quietly optimistic about how successful they’ll be.

“I think that we’ll be able to be competitive this year,” Mehlville head coach Jill Wojewuczki said. “We don’t want to get too far ahead of ourselves this year. But I think that in order for us to be successful, we’re going to have to focus on doubles play so that we don’t have to rely solely on our singles matches.”

Senior Stefanie Wong is a first-team all-conference selection and is a proven leader for the Panthers.

“Stefanie is hard working and dedicated to improving her game,” Wojewuczki said. “She leads by example and helps the girls stay focused on wanting to improve.”

Emily Wilder is another all-conference selection who’s establishing herself as a senior leader on this year’s team.

“Emily is a competitor in general,” Wojewuczki said. “Being a senior, she’s become even more focused and she’s really stepped into that vocal leadership role.”

Junior Annabelle Meyer was Wilder’s doubles partner and also an all-conference selection. She is poised to have a breakout year in singles play.

“Annabelle’s also come into the year more focused,” Wojewuczki said. “She’s done a really good job at improving.”

Another senior who’s committed to having a successful season is Alaina Johnson.

“Alaina is a very determined young lady which will help us,” Wojewuczki said. “She’s super coachable and comes in every day with a positive attitude.”

Rounding out the Panther’s senior squad is Boi Boi “Bri” Hong.

“Bri has a positive attitude and loves to be a part of the team,” Wojewuczki said. “She’s gained a lot of confidence in her play and she’s going to be fighting for that fifth or sixth spot of the varsity team this year.”