High School Tennis Polls Highlight Newton South Girls and Brookline Teams

Setting the Scene: MIAA Tennis Rankings Unveiled

Every spring, the high school tennis polls in Massachusetts spark excitement and debate among players, coaches, and fans. The Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) recently dropped its final Division 1 girls’ tennis power rankings, shining a spotlight on some powerhouse teams. At the top sits Lexington High with a staggering 5.6155 rating, while Newton South claims the #28 spot with a solid 1.3739 rating, though Brookline High didn’t quite make the Top 32 cut despite a notable season.

These rankings aren’t just random numbers—they’re calculated using a mix of average match margins (capped at ±3 per game) and the strength of opponents faced. It’s a system designed to reward consistency and grit. So, how did our featured teams fare in this competitive landscape? Let’s dive into their incredible journeys.

Newton South Girls: A Historic Run in High School Tennis Polls

The Newton South Lions girls’ tennis team had a season for the history books, storming their way to the Division 1 Final Four under the guidance of Coach Noura Guermazi. With a 9-5 regular season record, they proved they’re a force to be reckoned with, especially when the playoffs rolled around. This wasn’t just a fluke—it’s the result of dedication, strategy, and raw talent.

Leading the charge was sophomore sensation Olivia Whitaker, who dominated at first singles with an 18-2 record against some of the toughest players in Massachusetts. Her presence on the court was a game-changer, inspiring her teammates to push harder. Have you ever seen a player turn the tide like that?

Breaking Down the Playoff Victories

The Lions roared through the early rounds, taking down Natick and Andover, both with commanding 4-1 scores. They continued their streak with a thrilling 4-1 win over Westford Academy in the quarterfinals. But their run hit a wall against Boston Latin in the semifinals, falling 1-4 in a match that tested their limits.

Round	Opponent	Result
First Round	Natick	4-1 Win
Quarterfinals	Andover	4-1 Win
Semifinals	Boston Latin	1-4 Loss

Even with that loss, their playoff performance cemented Newton South as a serious contender in high school tennis rankings. What’s next for this rising squad? Only time will tell.

Brookline High: A Legacy of Tennis Excellence

When it comes to tennis in Eastern Massachusetts, Brookline High is practically a household name. While their girls’ team is in a rebuilding phase after a 9-5 regular season, the boys’ team has been nothing short of dominant, making five consecutive state championship appearances. Their 2024 season ended with a tough loss to Lexington, but not before racking up an incredible 23-0 regular season record.

Brookline’s tennis program thrives on a culture of excellence, fueled by passionate coaches like Mike Mowatt and Keith Carson. They’ve built a system that consistently churns out top-tier talent, including several USTA Four-Star recruits. It’s no wonder they’re always in the conversation when discussing Massachusetts high school tennis.

Stars of the Court at Brookline

The boys’ squad boasted standout players like Deven Devaiah, Dhevin Nahata, Owen Eskey, and Jacob Kapusta, who brought both skill and heart to every match. These athletes aren’t just playing for wins—they’re laying the groundwork for future championships with a roster full of promising underclassmen. For the girls, the focus is on development, with coaches eyeing long-term growth over immediate results.

What sets Brookline apart is their ability to reload rather than rebuild. With young talent stepping up, the future looks bright on both sides of the net.

Key Players and Coaches Driving Success

Behind every great team are the individuals who make the magic happen. At Newton South, Olivia Whitaker isn’t just a player—she’s a leader. Her experience in USTA tournaments has honed her skills, making her a tough matchup for anyone. Coach Guermazi’s emphasis on team culture has also played a huge role, creating a tight-knit group that fights for each other.

Over at Brookline, the coaching duo of Mowatt and Carson continues to shape a dynasty. Their ability to scout and nurture talent keeps the program competitive year after year. Players like Devaiah and Nahata are the embodiment of their philosophy—hardworking, strategic, and relentless. Who do you think will step up as the next big name for these teams?

Comparing Newton South and Brookline in High School Tennis Standings

Let’s put these two programs side by side. While Newton South grabbed a spot in the MIAA Top 32 at #28, Brookline’s girls’ team missed the cut despite matching Newton South’s 9-5 regular season record. The boys’ team, however, stole the show with their undefeated run. Here’s a quick look at how they stack up based on available data.

Team	Regular Season Record	Playoff Result	MIAA Ranking
Newton South Girls	9-5	Final Four (Loss to Boston Latin)	#28 (1.3739 rating)
Brookline Girls	9-5	Did Not Qualify for Top 32	Not Ranked
Brookline Boys	23-0	State Championship (Loss to Lexington)	Not Available

This comparison shows the depth of talent in high school tennis polls across divisions. Newton South’s ranking reflects their playoff success, while Brookline’s boys’ team demonstrates that regular season dominance doesn’t always translate to a title. What do you make of these numbers?

Community Support: Fueling Tennis Dreams

Tennis isn’t just about what happens on the court—it’s about the communities backing these teams. In Newton, organizations like The Friends of Newton Tennis Inc. host tournaments and fundraise to support local players. Their efforts ensure that kids have access to quality courts and coaching, building a pipeline for future stars.

Brookline, meanwhile, benefits from top-notch facilities and active youth programs that feed into the high school teams. Local businesses often step in as sponsors for events, creating a vibrant tennis culture. It’s heartwarming to see how these towns rally around their young athletes, don’t you think?

Challenges on the Horizon for Both Teams

No journey is without its bumps. For Newton South, infrastructure remains a concern, with aging courts in desperate need of repairs. Community advocates are pushing for upgrades, but progress is slow. Without better facilities, maintaining their momentum in Massachusetts high school tennis could be tough.

Brookline faces a different hurdle—rebuilding after losing key seniors, especially on the boys’ side. While their young roster is promising, filling those gaps will take time. Both programs are doubling down on youth development, hosting clinics and summer camps to groom the next generation. How do you think they’ll tackle these challenges?

Future Outlook: What’s Next in High School Tennis Rankings?

As the dust settles on the 2024 season, the future looks bright for both Newton South and Brookline. The Lions have a strong core returning, with Whitaker poised to lead another deep playoff run. Coach Guermazi’s focus on mental toughness and strategy could elevate them even further in next year’s high school tennis polls.

Brookline’s boys’ team, despite their championship loss, has the talent to bounce back stronger, while the girls’ squad is quietly building toward contention. With coaches fine-tuning their approach, I wouldn’t be surprised to see both teams making headlines again soon.

Tips for Aspiring High School Tennis Players

If you’re a student looking to make your mark on the court, take a page from these teams. First, focus on consistency—showing up to practice every day with purpose builds skills over time. Second, don’t shy away from tough competition; playing stronger opponents, like Whitaker does in USTA events, sharpens your game.

Finally, find a mentor or coach who pushes you. Both Newton South and Brookline owe much of their success to dedicated staff who instill discipline and passion. Got any tips of your own to share with budding athletes?

Wrapping Up: A Season to Remember

The 2024 tennis season showcased why Newton South girls’ tennis and Brookline High tennis teams are among the best in Massachusetts. From historic playoff runs to near-perfect records, their stories are a testament to hard work and community spirit. As we look ahead, the anticipation for next year’s high school tennis polls is already building.

I’d love to hear your thoughts! Did you follow these teams this season, or do you have a favorite high school squad? Drop a comment below, share this post with fellow tennis fans, or check out related stories on local sports to stay in the loop.

Sources

• MIAA Girls Tennis Division 1 Final Rankings, MIAA.net
• Newton South Girls Tennis Record Season Finish, Newton Beacon
• Brookline High Tennis Program, Brookline High School
• Newton South Girls Tennis 2024 Season Preview, Newton Beacon
• The Friends of Newton Tennis Inc., USTA
• Lexington Shuts Out Brookline for Boys Tennis State Title, Brookline News