PHOTOS: Lady Raider tennis senior night

ROCKINGHAM — The first senior night of the 2024 fall sports season took place on Richmond Senior High School’s tennis courts Thursday.

The Lady Raider tennis team recognized its six seniors — Madison Grimes, Megan Harris, Kenleigh Parker, Kaylin Sanders, Hanna Smith and Ava Thompson — for their commitment and contributions to the program.

Grimes and Smith have been members of the program all four years of high school, while Parker has played the past three years.

This season marked the first on the court for Harris, Sanders and Thompson.

“Senior night is always special because we get to celebrate our players,” head coach Jessica Covington said. “Many of them have been a part of our program since their freshman or sophomore season and that shows their dedication and hard work.

“And even the three who joined this year, they have contributed so much and gotten much better,” she continued. “I know myself and the rest of the team will miss them and we wish them the best in whatever they choose to do after high school.”

Each player was introduced by Covington and given a gift basket from her teammates. Some of the underclassmen shared memories and spoke to the senior players.

Afterward, the Lady Raiders started their home match against Hoke County High School, hoping to end a three-match losing streak.

The Richmond Observer will publish an article with the full results of Thursday’s match when they’re available.

Below are photos of Richmond’s tennis team’s senior night, taken by sports editor Kyle Pillar.