Burnet team tennis finishes season
CAPTION: Nick Dietrich is the Bulldogs’ No. 1 singles player thanks to his accuracy, strength and court smarts. Staff photo by Jennifer Fierro
The Burnet High School team tennis squad ended its season Sept. 30 by finishing sixth in District 25-4A.
“What stood out far more than our placement was the incredible progress this team made,” head coach Jayci Craig said. “We took major strides forward in every area: consistency, strategy, communication and overall competitiveness. Our players showed real grit and determination against tough opponents. The growth was undeniable, and as a coach, I’m proud of how far we’ve come. The foundation we’ve built this fall sets us up for even greater success moving forward.”
She pinpointed what she saw.
“This fall season was incredibly memorable for me as a head coach because of the growth I saw in each player — not just in their tennis skills, but in their confidence, teamwork and resilience,” Craig said. “Watching the team come together, support one another and push through challenges made every match meaningful. The energy, effort and spirit they brought to the courts made it a truly special season. I’m proud of how far we’ve come and excited for what’s ahead.”
Craig pointed out the growth went beyond what fans saw on the courts.
“Beyond their tennis skills, I saw our players grow tremendously in their leadership, communication and mental toughness,” she said. “They learned how to stay composed under pressure, support each other through tough matches, and lead by example both on and off the court. Whether it was cheering on teammates, handling setbacks with maturity, or showing up consistently with a positive attitude, their growth as individuals and teammates was just as rewarding as any on-court victory.”
Much of that goes back to seniors Alex Burns, Nick Dietrich, Callen Smith and Luke Suchomel, whom the coach called “incredible role models, both on and off the court.”
“Their leadership set the tone for the entire team,” she said. “They consistently showed what it means to lead with integrity, work hard, and support others. Their presence really helped shape the positive culture we had this season.”
The team also welcomed new faces, and Craig said she appreciates them, too.
“They came in eager to learn, compete and contribute right away,” she said. “Their work ethic and drive to get better each day were impressive, and they pushed not only themselves but the entire team forward. It’s been exciting to see their growth already, and I know they’ll be key players in the future.”
As the Bulldogs and Lady Dawgs now turn their attention to preparation for the spring season, the mixed doubles team of Burns and Smith looks to finish better than third in District 24-4A. That was the duo’s finish a year ago in a tough district in which they were very close to advancing to the Class 4A Region III tournament.
“Burns and Smith have been such a fun and dynamic mixed doubles team to coach,” Craig said. “What makes them great isn’t just their individual talent, but their chemistry on the court. They communicate constantly, trust each other’s shots, and really complement one another’s playing styles. Burns brings a calm, steady presence with smart shot placement, while Smith adds energy and aggression at the net. They stay positive even when the match gets tough, and their ability to problem-solve together in real time has made them incredibly effective and resilient. They’re a true example of what great teamwork looks like in doubles play. CALEX (their doubles nickname) is the ultimate doubles team.”
She also believes the players’ bonds grew throughout the fall and is another invaluable byproduct that goes beyond the scorecard.
“As a coach, what made this fall especially meaningful was watching all of our athletes, regardless of grade or experience, bond and become a true family,” the coach said. “They celebrated each other’s wins, lifted each other through losses, made unforgettable memories and built relationships that go far beyond the court. That sense of connection and unity is something I’m incredibly proud of, and it’s a big reason this season was so special.”
As she reflected on the team tennis season, in which preparations began in early August, Craig said she felt especially blessed.
“Looking back on this season, I just feel incredibly fortunate to have been these athletes’ coach,” she said. “Each one of them brought something unique and special to the team, and I’m so proud of the growth they’ve shown, both as tennis players and as people. I’m thankful every day that I get to be a small part of their journey, and it’s an honor to watch them support one another, rise to challenges, and develop into strong, respectful and driven individuals. As their coach, there’s no greater reward than seeing that kind of progress and connection. I’m excited to keep watching them grow and can’t wait to see the amazing things they’ll accomplish, both on and off the court. The future is bright for this group, and I’m just so proud to be a part of their story.”
CAPTION: Jayci Craig finishes her first season as the Burnet Consolidated Independent School District team tennis coach. Staff photo by Jennifer Fierro
