For the first time in nearly four decades multiple state champion Terry Conner will not be leading the charge as the Riverside tennis coach. Instead, long time assistant Scott Dunkerson takes over the position. The Rebels return plenty of championship experience including doubles state champion Blakely Biggers. Coach Dunkerson describes Biggers as being mentally strong that provides great leadership to the younger players. Henleigh McAnally is another senior that returns providing solid leadership to the team. Other returning players include junior Scout Priest and Arden Vaughn. Shelby Walling is a sophomore that garnered some experience as a freshman. Coach Dunkerson states that she has a“ passion for improvement.” Newcomers to this year’ s girls group include: Colbie Cullum, Anna Beth Emery, Addy Gipson, Brylen Pratts-Perez and Kenna Weaver. On the boys’ side, Maddox Stone leads the way. The multisport athlete provides great experience and senior leadership. Juniors Gage Alsup and River Gipson will use their state tournament experience as a way to bolster the team’ s chances. Other juniors include: Landon Berry, Gaven Carner, and Caygen Bell. Berry and Bell played in the district tournament last year. Asa Fazzio is the lone returning sophomore. He played at district last year. Newcomers for the boys include: senior Eli Woodall along with juniors Lake Wolf and Kannon Weaver.“ We will be very competitive this year both in the boys and girls,” said Coach Dunkerson.“ We have a great mix of experience and new players. We have a toughness and passion for the game for our strengths. Our weakness is overall lack of tennis experience.”