In 1996, the cult classic movie “Space Jam” came out, starring Michael Jordan alongside Bugs Bunny and his animated crew. That was 27 years ago, which is also the amount of time it has been since Warren Central Boys Tennis has lifted a sectional trophy.
Ever since beating Perry Meridian in a tight match on their courts in the sectional finals in 1996, the Warriors have not been able to find that spot again. This year, however, the team has a more experienced lineup with a lot of talent that can carry them to their first sectional championship in nearly three decades.
“It would be amazing if we could win sectionals after a 27-year drought,” sophomore Jack Basham said.
The Warriors are once again in a new sectional this season, being moved to sectional 28. Alongside Warren this year is Lutheran, Scecina Memorial, Beech Grove and Franklin Central. The Franklin Central Flashes are set to be the biggest competition for the Warriors in the sectional and will be a test of how well the team can perform against higher competition, something head coach John Patterson is excited to see.
“We talk about it in practice, but only experiencing it in live match situations will help give the belief and confidence in themselves to know how to be successful,” Patterson said.
Part of rising to the occasion is not only bringing high confidence and intensity but also playing together and supporting each other as a team. According to Patterson, the players cheer each other on once their own matches are over.
After having played multiple years together now, the chemistry between the players has continued to gain momentum.
“The team chemistry is really strong with such a small team,” senior captain Evan Wilson said. “We all get to know each other a lot, and we all support each other greatly.”
Basham and the other underclassmen on the varsity team have been able to bring their talents together and create a skilled unit. Since they lost only one senior last year, the team was essentially the same and allowed for even stronger chemistry.
Wilson, however, gets to experience the team from a different point of view. As the lone senior this year, he sees those relationships being built and encourages the younger players every step of the way.
“We're all doing our part,” Wilson said. “Each of us are in different spots on the team, and by playing every day, we each hold ourselves accountable for the greater good of the team.”
Overall, these Warriors have the same common goal of winning the first sectional in 27 years. According to Wilson, they have the skill set necessary to do it, but it will come down to their performance on the day they need to be at the top of their game.
“We’re just going to have to play how we always play,” Wilson said. “Play our best and hope for the best.”
The first match of the sectional tournament is scheduled for Tuesday evening at Franklin Central, and the Warriors are set to play Beech Grove.