Deer Creek excited for state tournament chance

Deer Creek coach Bryan Matthews was a little worried for his star freshman.

After cruising to the No. 1 singles championship match of the state regional tournament last week, Issabella Pensavalle found herself staring adversity right in the face.

Facing Tulsa Union’s Kayci Merrick, she quickly dropped the first set 0-6.

“I was nervous,” Matthews said. “She had been in this spot a few times this year though, so I was interested to see how she would respond.”

Pensavalle battled back, taking the next set 6-4 before taking the third and final set 6-1 to not only win the No. 1 single regional crown, but also help Deer Creek tie union for the team title.

As Deer Creek prepares for the Class 6A state tournament Friday and Saturday at the Oklahoma City Tennis Center, Matthews said it’s experiences like that at the regional tournament that could prove most useful heading in.

“Issabella has been on the wrong side of that split several times this year,” he said. “To see how far she’s come this year is really neat. It was good for her to face some adversity and come out positive on the other side.”

Deer Creek sophomore Addison Miller also claimed a regional title for the Antlers, defeating Union’s Anika Jallipalli 6-0, 6-2 to claim the No. 2 singles title.

All in all, Deer Creek is sending four to the state tournament this week. In addition to Pensavalle and Miller, No. 1 doubles pair (Addie Duroy and Chloe Hill) and No. 2 doubles pair (Macy Cates and Kacie Waswo) also qualified.

It’s a special moment for Matthews, who last week announced he would be stepping down as coach to focus on family and business investments.

“There is some finality to it for me,” Matthews said. “It’s been great watching these girls grow not only as a player but as individuals.

“We have a really talented team and it’s cool to watch them compete at a high level.”