Richlands sophomore Jack Clem secured his second consecutive Class 2 state singles title with a hard-fought 6-3, 6-3 victory over Bruton’s Christoph Schweitzer at Liberty University in Lynchburg. Clem, who remained undefeated in singles matches for two seasons, displayed patience and skill to overcome his formidable opponent.
Meanwhile, Marion junior Parker White clinched her third Class 2 state singles crown after a thrilling 6-4, 5-7, 1-0 (6) win against Radford’s Lydia Pratt. White’s victory also contributed to Marion’s second consecutive Class 2 team title, showcasing her exceptional talent and leadership on the court.
Despite a rare loss in the Class 2 doubles finale, Clem was determined to bounce back in the singles final against Schweitzer. The match was intense, with Clem acknowledging the challenge posed by his opponent’s defensive play.
Clem credited his improvement since last season for his success, highlighting the importance of his serve and overall game development. With the guidance of his father, Shane, and coach David Poole, Clem is focused on elevating his skills for future competitions, including the USTA circuit this summer.
As Clem continues to hone his game and seek opportunities in college tennis, his dedication and passion for the sport are evident. With a supportive team and coaching staff behind him, Clem is poised to make a lasting impact on the tennis scene and pursue his dreams on the court.