A year ago, the Barrington High School girls tennis team celebrated a stellar season — finishing second in the state behind LaSalle Academy. 

Barrington coach Betsy Brenner said she enjoyed last year's "dream season," and quickly added that she's excited to face this year's challenges. 

"One of the things I love most about this is every year is different," said Ms. Brenner. "This is a rebuilding year."

Ms. Brenner said Barrington begins this season without two of its top singles players. Caroline Maher played at number one singles last year, but injured her knee skiing during the winter.

"She's scheduled to return to hitting later this month," said Ms. Brenner. "It's a question mark about whether she'll be able to return to matches."

Ms. Brenner's daughter, Lexi, was an All-State doubles player last year, but has not yet been able to take the court. Ms. Brenner said Lexi is managing a chronic illness.

Ms. Brenner said the Eagles enter the season starting six freshmen and two sophomores, in addition to three juniors and one senior. 

"We'll do the best we can," said Ms. Brenner.

Freshman Kate Robertson is Barrington's number one singles player, and fellow freshman Marie Chanfrau is at number two singles. Beth Wang, a junior, will take the court at third singles and Lauren Jay, a standout doubles player last year, will play fourth singles. Lauren is a junior.

Senior Hope Vetromile will partner with junior Eve Stockwell at first doubles, while freshman Hailey Walter and sophomore Meghan McDermott will play at number two doubles. Sophomore Alison Kostas and freshman Julia Stanchina form Barrington's third doubles team. 

"We're young and I'm excited to have the opportunity to develop young players," said Ms. Brenner. "Hopefully we'll get better with each match we play. Every year is different. Last year was a dream season… I love it, and the future is so bright knowing we have this group of young players."

Other players expected to contribute this season include freshmen Sage Wells and Mira Chang.

Hope Vetromile, Lexi Brenner and Lauren Jay will serve as Barrington's captains this year. Ms. Brenner is assisted by coach Chris Barton.