Wheels are turning, figuratively and literally, as the varsity tennis team is on the road to commence its first-ever trip to the state tournament as a team. The journey has been long awaited amid individual success throughout the years, and numerous close calls in regional finals.

Both girls and guys competing took part in a send-off breakfast this morning which took place in the indoor tennis courts. With great enthusiasm and vigor, the journey started as the team loaded the bus at 8:30 this morning.

“I really admire this team with the adversity faced by them this year,” head tennis coach Tom Faulkner said. “I look really forward to this, and we will go out and give our best effort.”

The Tigers are lead by top boy performers, senior Carson Rommel and junior Hutch Tidwell. With numerous underclassmen on the team, these two have grown into their leadership roles.

“This is probably the best feeling I could have, being it is my senior year,” Rommel said. “I am going out with a bang, hopefully winning a trophy for our school.”

The Tigers begin action Wednesday against Grapevine High School at 11 a.m. and look to advance to final championship rounds.

“Winning state would be surreal. It is something I dream about, watching guys like Grant Adams winning it,” Tidwell said. “We got here, and hopefully it isn’t over, and we will bring a championship back to Texarkana.”