Spring Sports Preview: Solon Boys Tennis Loaded With Talent

There was no adjustment period when Chris Klampe took over the boys' tennis program at Solon.

Klampe, the director of tennis at The Country Club, has worked with eight of the nine varsity team members. "I've been working with most of them since they were about 10 years old," said Klampe. "They've stayed in my program over the years and it's a great advantage for all of us. I know them and they know me."

And Klampe, who played on a team that won a USTA National title in 2005, knows he has plenty of talented players this season. "We have a lot of very good players and some of them won't start every match for us," he said.

Seniors Evan Schrode and Zach Singerman made it all the way to the state tournament in doubles last year as did senior Liam O'Brien and junior Andrew Branstetter. Those four will see action at both singles and doubles before teaming up again to make a run at Columbus in sectional and district tournaments.

Senior Jason Schrode has recovered from a shoulder injury and he is joined by fellow seniors Brandon Gross and Daniel Livshin. Two standout sophomores, David Shankman and Brian Yang, fill out a lineup that is as good from top to bottom as any in the area.

"David is highly ranked in the district and Brian has showed a lot of improvement," said Klampe. "And with our seniors we have as good a chance as anyone in the tournaments."

The Comets will contend in the state team tournament, where a potential match awaits against area power Shaker Heights. In the individual tournament, Solon's players will compete against another strong field of contenders.

"The senior class of talent in Northeast Ohio is unbelievable this year," said Klampe.

The Comets have toughened up their regular season schedule and will square off against such perennial state powers as University School and Hawken. The team will also participate in the Pickerington and Lexington Invitationals.