SPORTS – “Lady Bears keep region matches close”

BEAR RIVER HIGH – By Cari Doutre – September 21, 2020

Brooklyn Francom and Jessa Carlson, Sept. 17, 2020 - Photo by Ryan Jensen

Despite two more Region 11 losses on the tennis court for the Bear River High School girls’ tennis team this season, their coaches are staying optimistic and positive as the team is showing big signs of improvement and progress.

Starting last week by traveling to Logan High School on Tuesday, September 15, the Lady Bears lost 3-2 in varsity play.

Coming out victorious on the tennis court for the Bear River varsity team include junior Erika Olsen at first singles. Olsen beat her Logan opponent 6-2, 6-2.

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Erika Olsen, Sept. 17, 2020 - Photo by Ryan Jensen

At first doubles, Bear River sister sensation duo Carisa and Shannon Epling, won 6-1, 6-4.

Earning wins for the Bear River junior varsity team against Logan were Brooklyn Francom at first singles (8-2) and Shelby Hansen at third singles (8-2).

Two days later the Lady Bears hosted Ridgeline High School on Thursday, Sept. 17, falling to the Riverhawks 3-2.

Olsen, who is currently undefeated this season, beat her Ridgeline opponent at first singles (7-6, 7-2, 6-4). Check back later this week for a feature story on Olsen by BRVNEWS.com

Carisa and Shannon Epling also earned the win at first doubles (7-6, 7-3, 4-6, 6-0) against their Ridgeline opponents that are ranked second in Region 11.

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Shannon and Carisa Epling, Sept. 17, 2020 - Photo by Ryan Jensen

Paige Peterson and Lindsey Burrell won their match at first doubles for the Bears’ junior varsity team.

“Last time we played Ridgeline our second doubles team lost 2-6, 3-6. Our third singles also improved. Overall, it was a good match,” said ChrisDean Epling, Bear River High girls’ tennis assistant coach.

“Our scores are getting closer and closer to winning matches. Just a little more determination and confidence and we will start winning 3-2 and 4-1. I couldn’t be more proud of how the girls are playing,” she added.

This week the Bear River girls’ tennis team will host Green Canyon on Tuesday, Sept. 22, starting at 3:30 p.m. On Thursday, Sept. 24, the Bears will host Sky View starting at 3:30 p.m. The Region 11 championship tournament is set for Sept. 30-Oct. 2, at Green Canyon.

Photos by Ryan Jensen