The Emmaus girls tennis program served and volleyed well enough during the 2018 campaign to finish 7-8 during the regular season, an improvement from 2017.

First-year coach Robert Dragotta believes this year’s edition can continue the trend.

The new coach served as a math and computer science teacher in the Pennridge School District for 34 years, coaching tennis and basketball for a combined 70 seasons. After his retirement from the school district, he served as a tennis pro at two clubs - Oakmont and Sand Island.

Coming into the 2019 campaign, Dragotta has good reason for optimism. That doesn’t mean there won’t be challenges, but he doesn’t focus on wins and losses.

“My goal is for the players to improve each day, work hard at practice and try their best,” Dragotta said.

The Green Hornets have lost some talent - Sonya Boukengolts, Erin Lavelle and Katherine Erickson for starters. In addition, last year’s number one singles player, Shannon Steward transferred to Bethlehem Catholic and doubles starter Abirami Chinnakaruppan is also gone.

Emmaus will be relying heavily on junior Mia Columbus, who will serve as the number one singles player. Sophomore Jocelyn Chow gets the nod in the number two singles slot. Misa Hollinger will see time in the number three position.

Columbus did not post a winning record last season, but she did “set a positive example for her teammates with a good attitude and good leadership skills,” said former coach Brian Bleam.

Chow had a remarkable 11-5 mark and “was the MVP of the team,” according to Bleam.

In doubles, Dragotta will have Alyssa Mugavero and Julia Marks as the first doubles duo, provided the two singles don’t have to play at 3-3 during a match, the coach said. Krissy Heilenman and Riley Stuckey will comprise the second doubles team, while senior Ivory Gao and Payton McGlory play the third spot and Teya Gougoustamos and Shelby Carter are fourth.

The coach was tapped Gao and Columbus to serve as captains.

“The players at Emmaus are very nice young ladies,” said Dragotta. “They are working hard and trying to improve each day. I’m lucky to be a part of the Emmaus family.

The season started Aug. 19 with a 5-2 loss to Bethlehem Catholic and a 7-0 win Aug. 21 over William Allen.