With the start of boys’ tennis beginning April 4, senior captain Robert Perelman is looking forward to a season unaffected by COVID-19.

“(Last year), we didn’t have a lot of matches and could only play conference matches (due to COVID-19). But this year, we have a lot of non-conference matches as well,” Perelman said. “We might be playing three to four matches per week, which is going to be exciting.”

Freshman Josh Fink said he hopes the upcoming season will give him an opportunity to play plenty of matches and meet new people. 

“It’s an awesome environment and so far I’ve really enjoyed it,” Fink said. “The preseason has been great because it gives everyone a chance to meet each other and see how everyone compares to each other, tennis level-wise.”

Perelman said joining tennis is a great chance to be a part of a community without needing any  previous knowledge about the sport.

“It’s fun and you don’t have to go into it already knowing how to play tennis, you’ll learn how to do it,” Perelman said. “You just have to sign up and you’ll be able to play. It’s very inclusive.”

According to senior Liam Rapp, he is eager to explore the new opportunities for the new lineup for this spring’s team. 

“I’m looking forward to seeing our new lineup,” Rapp said. “We have a lot of good potential new players this year— it’s going to be good.”

Perelman says he is prepared and thrilled to take on the responsibilities of being a team captain as a senior.

“To be a captain means you have to lead and lead by example,” Perelman said. “It’s a big leadership role and I’m excited.”

Tryouts are April 4–8 from 3:30–5:15 p.m. at St. Louis Park High School tennis courts.