La Crosse Aquinas Secures Division 2 Qualification for Fourth Consecutive Year

The Aquinas High School boys tennis team made waves at the WIAA Division 2 state tournament, securing their fourth consecutive trip to the prestigious event. The team showcased their dominance at the John and Fay Menard YMCA Tennis Center, clinching a spot in the team state tournament with an impressive performance.

Junior Anderson Fortney emerged as a standout player, claiming the No. 1 singles championship in a thrilling finals matchup against West Salem junior Kyle Hehli. The two talented players battled it out on the court, with Anderson ultimately emerging victorious with scores of 7-6 (7-4), 4-6, 10-5. This win marked Anderson’s second victory over Hehli this season, highlighting his exceptional skill and determination.

In addition to Anderson’s success, Aquinas junior Mitchell Fortney secured an individual state qualifier spot after winning the No. 2 singles bracket. The team’s senior duo, Sam Dickinson and junior Patrick Gundersen, also shone bright, winning three matches and clinching the championship in impressive fashion.

With the team’s stellar performance, Aquinas accumulated 45 points, outscoring second-place Altoona and solidifying their spot in the team state tournament. The Blugolds’ remarkable display of talent and teamwork has set the stage for an exciting competition at the upcoming state tournaments, where they will undoubtedly be a force to be reckoned with.