By Caleb Youngblood, Public Relations Coordinator
April 26, 2024
The Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science juniors, Adair Gaines and Darshi Kher won Class I state titles on Wednesday at the MHSAA Tennis Championships in Oxford.
“I am proud of them and their accomplishments,” coach Troy King Sr. said. “After the season started, they put in the hard work to have a successful season, going undefeated in the regular season and also in the district tournament and state championships.”
The duo competed in the girls doubles competition where they defeated the defending champs of Eupora 6-3, 6-3 to claim the title.
“Ever since I started playing varsity tennis, I have always wanted to have a state title,” Kher said. “Coming to MSMS has allowed me to have that chance. This win is a great accomplishment for Adair and I, and we have high hopes to win next year too. This win has let me reassure myself that I can win state and win in the future.”
“Winning a state title was a very rewarding experience,” Gaines said. “Darshi and I have played together for the whole season, and I’m really glad it paid off.”
The Blue Waves tennis team additionally saw success in both the regular season and playoffs. The 2023-2024 season ended with an overall record of 5-3, securing the district championship for a second consecutive year.
“The expectations weren’t high when the season started, but after hard work and determination, we felt that we had a great chance to win as a team in the state championship,” said King, who is in his fourth year as head coach.
The Blue Waves advanced through the playoffs and clinched state championship contention by beating Tupelo Christian Academy in the third round. Traveling to Oxford, they fought hard and received runner-up status at the state competition level, falling short against Sacred Heart Catholic School.
The loss, however, seemed to have only made the team stronger and more determined to win the championship next season.
“We have great players coming back and also some good players coming,” King said. “I believe we can win the team championships and more individual wins.”
“I expect to keep improving my senior year,” Gaines said. “I’m excited to see the juniors that will join our team, and I hope we can win a state title as a team.”
To see the scores from the MHSAA State Tournament, please click here.