Courtesy Photo The Alpena High School Boys Tennis team is looking forward to a season of growth this year.

ALPENA — As the new Alpena High School boys’ tennis season begins, head coach Charlie Giordano is keeping his focus clear and consistent: development, enjoyment, and growth.

“My expectations are the same as always — grow as a player, become more consistent, and enjoy your time on the court,” Giordano said.

This year’s team features a large group of new players, giving the Wildcats a fresh look as they step into competition. With so many newcomers, the early weeks of practice have centered on fundamentals, including form, footwork, and comfort at the contact point of the swing.

The 2025 Wildcat team includes seniors Jack Caplis, Zach Cloft, Liam Kieliszewski, Lincoln Meinzinger, and Nathan Pokorzynski, juniors Austin DeRosia, Landon Dimarzo, Dillan Gagnon, Oliver McConnell, and Thaddeus Seacrest, sophomores Lachlan Knowlton, Will Meinhart, and Owen Wiseman, and freshmen Brody Engstrom, Jonah Gagnon, Sam Hainstock, Jackson Wallace, and Ian Zitlau.

To help players progress, Giordano has emphasized cooperative drills that challenge athletes to place the ball where their partner needs it, ensuring both players benefit from each rally.

Beyond skill-building, Giordano hopes his players learn lessons that extend beyond the court. “Learn from your mistakes,” he said. “Enjoy your time working on your game. And understand that you’re fortunate to be playing a sport you’ll be able to play for the rest of your lives.”

With a mix of growth, learning, and fun at the forefront, the Wildcats will look to build consistency and competitiveness as the season moves forward.

The Wildcats head to Midland on Saturday, then they face Harbor Springs for their first home game at 4 p.m. on Thursday.