However, the Rams are poised to turn the page with the returning players’ experience and overall team chemistry. 

“Our main goal is to win our division,” DiNozzi said. “We are in a different division than last year, and we hope to be more competitive. We should be a better team, as we return six of our seven varsity starters, so even though we did not have a great record last year, we feel like we gained valuable experience.” 

This season, the Rams will compete with a roster of experienced players including sophomore Ava Pincho returning in the first singles slot and junior Sophie Visser at third singles. Both proved themselves in last year’s season, stepping up big time with match wins. Rounding out the singles roster is senior captain Noelle Thompson at second singles.  

“Noelle leads by example,” DiNozzi said. “She always does the right things, and just as importantly, tries to make sure others are doing the right things.” 

Returning seniors Lucy Girardi and Ava Olsen are slated to play first doubles and Amy Myerson and Riyana Chaudhary are taking the second doubles slot. Joining the heavy-hitting team of seniors are senior alternates Kisa Mulondo and Livia Fontes.

With most of the team being returning seniors, DiNozzi feels confident about the coming season. “Having already played for three seasons will help the girls to be successful, even if we need to change the lineup,” he said. This year the Rams will look to capitalize on their experience and determination to win.  

“Last year was definitely a learning experience for us. Now that 6 out of 7 of us are returning and playing in the same positions, we hope to use our experience and the lessons we learned to come back stronger,” Thompson said. “Through the ups and downs, we developed a close bond as a team that will carry into this season and propel us to victory.” 

The Rams this season join the National Division and will play new teams such as Mount Olive, Pope John, Parsippany Hills, Roxbury and West Morris. “I’m looking forward to our match against Morris Hills,” DiNozzi said. “We lost to them last year, 3-2, so I think we have a great chance to flip the result this year.” DiNozzi noted that the most difficult matches on the current schedule are against Mendham and Montville.  

The Rams, on top of their individual skill, attribute much of their potential success to their team chemistry. Over the off-season, the team held captain practices in addition to clinics and private lessons to build their expertise. The team is entering the season with high expectations and will test how they match up in their new division the week after Labor Day, as the Rams play four matches in a row, each a division game.

 The Rams begin their hopeful season against Mount Olive today, Tuesday, Sept. 3 at 4:00 p.m. at Brundage Park.