Getting an edge on the court
Both Dallastown senior Gavin Smith and York Suburban freshman Evan Andrews, the No. 1 seeds in the YAIAA Class AAA and Class AA singles tournaments, respectively, could lose on Monday when they each play for a title against lower ranked opponents.
They could, but they probably won't.
Each player has clearly dominated their competition this season and essentially steamrolled through the tournament so far. Neither player has even come close to losing a set in the first four rounds.
So what gives these two players such an edge over their competition?
Smith, who has reached the semifinals of the tournament for four straight years and won the title last season, emphasized his versatility.
"I hit the ball harder, I'm more consistent and I can play good defense," Smith said. "It forces players to go for more and they tend to mis more generally against me than other players."
Andrews is only in his first year of varsity play, but the lanky freshman gets the most out of his tall frame during service games.
"I think some of the players aren't used to seeing such a big serve," Andrews said. "They're not used to different spins, a kick serve and some other kinds. I really do think that's one of the biggest advantages for me."
Smith will take on teammate Connor Slates in his final while Andrews will battle Northeastern's Eric Klinedinst. Both matches will take place Monday afternoon at South Western at 3 p.m.
