Trojan tennis stumbles out of the gate, drops match to Thomas Jefferson

Solomon Smith, freshman, bounces back after tough match against Riverside.

By Benjamin Ray • September 15, 2023 3:30 pm

The Auburn Trojans tennis team’s tough start to the 2023 season continues after a 4-1 loss to Thomas Jefferson on Sept. 14.

Despite their 1-4 record, the Trojans have played really competitive matches. Against Kennedy Catholic and Tahoma, two really solid 4A programs, Auburn came up just short, losing 3-2 in both of those matches.

Even against Thomas Jefferson, the score might have been 4-1, but all three doubles matches went to a third set tiebreaker.

Freshman standout Solomon Smith was the lone Trojan in the win column on Thursday, taking down his opponent in straight sets 6-1, 6-1.

He was coming off one of his worst matches in his career against Auburn Riverside and needed a bounce back. But he had to wait in the match prior to this because of a rainout against Kent-Meridian.

“After playing KM and being rained out halfway, I was really focused on getting a win. Especially after my first time getting bageled, I was really looking for a win today,” Smith said.

Maksym Martyniuk lunges for a ball against the Raiders. Ben Ray / The Reporter

He was proud he made an adjustment in his serves.

“My second serve (improved). Against Riverside my second serve was lacking. Missed a lot of them, double faulted twice in every game. I only double faulted twice the entire match today. Second serve was really working for me today,” Smith said.

Smith is in a unique position on the Trojan roster. He is the number one singles player, but is also a freshman. He has shown he can lead, even as a youngster.

“I try to use my experience that I’ve learned through my years of playing … I try to use my wisdom and encourage them to do better,” said Smith.

Besides losing 5-0 against Riverside, the Trojans are so close to a top record in the 3A NPSL.

“It’s about those crucial points. Especially for our doubles, communicating and playing with that certain guy. Learning how to play with each other, learning each other’s strengths and weaknesses. I think once we get over the hump of those crucial game winner points every single match, we’ll be amazing,” said Smith.