EMMA GUNDERSON & ISABELLE SMITH WIN BUT THEN FALL IN CONSOLATION CHAMPIONSHIP AT STATE TENNIS

The Crookston Pirate Doubles pair of seniors, Emma Gunderson and Isabelle Smith won a consolation semi-final match this morning in a thriller beating a duo from Pine City, Lexa Valvoda and Alana Linnell, 6-3, 4-6 and winning a 10-4 tie break to advance to the Minnesota State Class A Consolation Doubles Championship. It was the 100th win of Emma Gunderson’s career!!! “This match was great competition. Emma and Isa played so well at the net and serving,” said Crookston head coach Gina Gunderson.
The Pirate pair then played Josie Schmidt and Lydia Sparby of Belle Plaine for the championship. Belle Plaine pair showed off their talent in a 6-0, 6-3 win to claim the doubles championship, while the Crookston duo finished off a great tennis career at CHS. “The second match was a tough one,” said coach Gunderson, The Belle Plaine girl’s were excellent at the net. It was hard to lose your last match of your high school career, but they have lots to be proud of.”
In Gina Gunderson’s first season as head coach the Pirates had a remarkable season. “It’s really hard to put a season like this into words. We’ve had lots of fun, made lots of memories and it’s sad to see it all come to an end.”
Crookston graduates seven seniors to all contributed to the success of the program for many year, “I’m proud of this team and all they have accomplished.”

Isabelle Smith      Emma Gunderson