IRON MOUNTAIN, Mich. (WZMQ) – Iron Mountain High School kicked off their sporting events for the year with an exciting Meet the Mountaineers event. The highlight of the evening was the introduction of the girls’ tennis team, who are eager to make a mark this season. Adding to the anticipation, the team welcomed their new head coach, Keith Huotari, who will be leading both the girls’ and boys’ tennis teams this year.
Coach Huotari, in his first public appearance since joining Iron Mountain, spoke passionately about the rich history of girls’ tennis at the school. “We’re going to make the ride up there tomorrow, and we’re going to do our best. I don’t think a lot of people realize the rich history that Iron Mountain has in girls’ tennis,” he stated proudly.
Indeed, Iron Mountain has an impressive record in girls’ tennis, with 15 UP titles won since 1977, as Coach Huotari revealed. The legacy of success is a source of inspiration for the current team, who bid farewell to eleven strong seniors last year. This year, they have three new seniors ready to step up and lead the team. One of them is Hailey Greenleaf, who coincidentally celebrates her birthday today.
Greenleaf, a senior co-captain, expressed her excitement for the start of the season. “We’ve been practicing an hour-and-a-half-ish each day. Practicing in the heat bonds ya,” she shared. With a good group of girls by her side, Greenleaf believes that this year will be a fun and memorable one for the team.
As the team was introduced, Greenleaf proudly named her teammates, highlighting their commitment and dedication. “Maddie Powell, Senior, Mallory Marcini, Senior, Abby Ward, Junior, Betsy Vengas-Mendoza, Junior. Veronica Stanchina, Junior. Anni Lucas, Junior. Amelia Miles, Junior. Jacqueline Rowe, Sophomore, Lilliana Olsen, Sophomore. Avea Brown, Sophomore, and Alicia Wood, Freshman.” she announced.
With their new coach and a determined group of players, the Iron Mountain girls’ tennis team is ready to make their mark on the court this season. As they prepare for their first match, the Mountaineers are filled with optimism and enthusiasm, ready to continue the legacy of success that Iron Mountain has become known for.
All Iron Mountain students will be able to get into home games completely free this year.
The school athletic booster club is actively looking for volunteers to serve in the concessions for games. Those interested in volunteering, please visit:
At this year’s upcoming football games, the Iron Mountain school football field will unveil spectacular new stadium lights that are igniting excitement among the school superintendent, athletic director, and varsity football coach. School officials anticipate the new lighting system will make this year an exciting one for Iron Mountain football fans.
