The Mason City Schools board recognized the boys tennis team for winning state championships and honored players and coaches at its regular meeting.

Coach Mike Reed described the season and the strategic lineup change that he said helped the team secure a state championship. “They're just a really talented and focused group of guys,” Reed said. He also noted that senior Greg Bernaski won an individual state singles championship, becoming the district’s third state singles champion.

Reed reviewed how high school tennis uses ordered singles and doubles positions and said he altered the lineup late in the season to strengthen the doubles pairing and create points in other matches. He recounted tough matches, including two wins over New Albany, and said the semifinal matchup felt like a state final. “We got a state championship out of that,” Reed said.

Several players stood at the board to introduce themselves and describe the season. Players and board members discussed offseason training, tournament play and how being a ball person at the Cincinnati Open influenced players’ development.

Board members and district leaders thanked the players, coaches and parents and invited the team to receive gifts and photos after the meeting.