Tennis Readies for an Exciting Serve: The 2025 Season Approaches!

The Sedona Red Rock High School tennis team is set to kick off its 2025 season on Tuesday, March 18, at 3:30 p.m. The team will host the Kingman Bulldogs, marking an anticipated beginning under the guidance of Head Coach Andrew Ellis, who is in his third year with the program.

Senior player Olivia Glatt expressed her enthusiasm for the opening match, noting the competitive nature of the Bulldogs. “I’m looking forward to this year because I’ve learned how to better my serve and how to play with and against many different players,” she said. Glatt plans to continue her education on the East Coast following graduation.

Ellis highlighted the experience on this year’s roster, stating, “We have a majority of seniors playing this season. My goals are a good senior year for them and to build the team with underclassmen.” He is actively working to reach out to Sedona Charter School to promote the tennis program, addressing concerns about future team continuity as the team may face challenges next year without a strong recruitment strategy.

Concerns about enrollment are echoed by the Sedona Charter School Governing Council, which voted on January 21 to close its middle school program due to declining student numbers. Meanwhile, the Scorpions struggled last season, finishing with a 0-9 record after a prior 0-11 finish. Ellis attributed the team’s difficulties mainly to attendance issues.

“That was unfortunate,” he remarked. “However, the girls had a great time… they showed great sportsmanship.” He acknowledged the changing landscape of youth sports, noting that many students juggle various commitments that can sideline their participation.

Despite the challenges, Ellis remains optimistic. “I think this team has a chance to go undefeated,” he said, recalling the last time the team achieved such a feat in 2021 with a 10-0 regular season record.

A significant addition to the squad is senior Ashley Calogero, who, along with her freshman sister Emily Calogero, recently transferred from Florida. Ashley shared her journey into tennis, stating, “I started playing tennis around seven. My mom and sister got me into it, and when we lived in Florida, we took lessons.” Excited to compete in her senior year, Ashley appreciates the support and knowledge offered by her teammates.

Emily Calogero, recognized for her aggressive play style, emphasized her desire to improve rather than focus solely on wins. “I really just want to practice and get better for this year and for future years,” she stated, indicating a commitment to growth.

Sophomore player Rubin Lyn reflected on her transition to competitive tennis, expressing confidence from her background in track and field. “I feel well prepared to hold my own in matches,” she noted. Junior Reymond Papas-Collins, who is more focused on personal development than competition, shared, “I’m trying to work on my strength, and we’re all just trying to get to a similar level.”

SRRHS Tennis Roster

Rubin Lyn

Reymond Papas-Collins

Olivia Glatt

Emily Calogero

Ashley Calogero

Angi Yin

Not pictured: Valentina Ramos, Adriana Lazalde, Daisy Nez, and Belle Gray