By HECTOR LONGO

Staff Writer

The Souhegan High boys tennis program went nine years between state titles, before capping an unbeaten 2018 with its first crown since 2009.

With four starters returning from that group, the Sabers might be thinking repeat.

“We have lots of work to do this season,” said coach John Kilgore, whose club is slated to open this spring season at ConVal on Monday. “The team Goal is to qualify top-four for the playoffs and make another run at the championship. “W e need to develop a few players during the season and expect to have a solid lineup for the playoffs.

Kilgore likes what he sees right now at the top of the heap.

“Our No. 1 player this season, Samuel Goddard, will make a great run for the individual singles tournament,” the coach said.

Milford High will not be playing tennis on the boys side (see story below). However, the Spartan girls are back, returning three starters from their 2018 state semifinalist team.

“We lost some key players from last year but gained some talent, so it’s tough to say,” said coach Nancy McManus. “We should be competitive. We’re grateful to Hampshire Hills for letting us begin our season hitting inside while we wait for warmer weather.”

The Souhegan girls went 6-8 a year ago and could be a program on the rise.

“We will be competitive in most matches, and with a little luck, maybe playoffs?” said coach Bo Dean.

Here’s a look at the teams:

Milford High Girls

Coach: Nancy McManus (eighth year)

Last year’s record: 12-4, lost in semifinals to Portsmouth

Returning starters: Heather Hager, Soph.; Sydney Kolasinski, Jr.; Kami Peterson, Sr.

Other returning players: Hallie Gagnon, Soph.; Cassie Shaw, Soph.; Erin Jasper, Soph.

Promising newcomers: Adrianna George, Frosh.; Elisabeth Roadcap, Jr.

Souhegan High Girls

Coach: Bo Dean (fourth year)

Last year’s record: 6-8

Returning starters: Lila Morgan, Sr.; Zoe Garvey, Sr.; Anna Goyette, Soph.; Lily Hipp, Jr.

Promising newcomers: Maddie Daniel, Frosh.; Simmone Dodge, Jr.; Tatum Chamberlain, Jr.

Souhegan High Boys

Coach: John Kilgore (11th year)

Last year’s record: 17-0 , Division II state champions

Returning starters: Samuel Goddard, Jr.; Kyle Gibson, Sr.; Joshua Lacaillade, Sr.; Michael Dodge, Soph.

Other returning players: Nicholas Marinelli, Sr.; Patrick Conway, Sr.; Camden Fritz, Sr.

Promising newcomers: Joshua Goddard, Frosh.; James Zeolie, Frosh.; Evan Loconto, Sr.