By Tommy Keeler Jr. -- Daily Staff Writer

James Wood's girls tennis program had been the doormat of the Northwestern District for several years, combining for just two wins over the last three seasons.

With the addition of Isle of Wright transfer Kari Pope and freshman Headley Wilson, the Colonels' fortunes changed dramatically this year.

James Wood coach Rob Haskiell, The Northern Virginia Daily's Girls Tennis Coach of the Year, guided the team to a 14-5 record. The Colonels finished second in the Northwestern District and advanced to the Region II quarterfinals where they lost to Western Albemarle. Pope and Wilson capped off the season by winning the Group AA individual doubles title, the first girls tennis state title in school history.

Meanwhile, this was supposed to be a rebuilding year for Handley's boys tennis team. The Judges lost three players to graduation, including Group AA state champion Alex Funkhouser. With a young and relatively inexperienced squad, the Judges put together another strong season.

Coach Jim Robertson, the Daily's Boys Tennis Coach of the Year, inserted freshman Kyle Stickley and Daniel Park into the starting lineup and the move helped the Judges to another Northwestern District regular season title. Handley lost only one district match during the regular season and advanced to regionals for the 12th consecutive year. Even though Handley (13-4) lost to Monticello, the groundwork has been laid for another strong season next year as the Judges should return their entire lineup.

Jennifer Ireland, the Daily's Boys Track Coach of the Year, led Millbrook to quite a season in her first year at the helm.

The Pioneers won the Northwestern District title, finished seventh in the Region II meet and eighth in the Group AA state meet. Millbrook also had an individual state champion as Brenton Parham won the 300-meter hurdles state title and the 4x400 meter relay team finished second.

Andre Kidrick, the Daily's Girls Track Coach of the Year, had a talented squad at Clarke County and was able to get the most out of his athletes.

The Eagles won their first-ever Group A state title. Clarke County junior Sophia Holmes was the state champion in the 800 and the 4x400 meter relay team also took home the title. The Eagles, who finished second in the state the last three years, also won the Bull Run District and Region B crowns.

R Contact Tommy Keeler Jr. at tkeeler@nvdaily.com

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