Last week, both Putnam County tennis teams lost in the first round of the Class A Division I state tournaments, ending their seasons.
The No. 14 seed Lady War Eagles faced No. 19 Banks County, with the Lady Leopards advancing to the second round of the tournament after a 3-0 win.
The girls’ match was competitive, with two Putnam County players winning in the third set, but it was called early.
Hannah Erickson in the No. 1 singles spot, along with the No. 2 doubles team of Joelle Lukens and Addie Grace Ursy, were performing well for the Lady War Eagles, but Banks County shut the door and secured the win.
“Two of my girls were winning and were in the third set, but didn’t get to finish,” Putnam County head coach Christian Keiser said. “The other matches also went to third sets, but unfortunately, we were on the losing side.”
Putnam County’s girls entered the playoffs after finishing third in the region. With their season now over, there remains some upside as the entire roster returns next year.
Erickson, Lukens, Ursy, Vidhi Raiyani, Carolyn Thomas, Kalalena Xiong, and Daniela Cruz Perez will return, hoping to make it back to the postseason in 2026.
“I’m proud of their effort and competitiveness,” Keiser said. “It was our best showing in state since I’ve been the coach.”
The No. 28 Putnam County boys traveled to Rome to face No. 5 Model. The Blue Devils handled their business and defeated the War Eagles, advancing further in the playoff bracket.
It was a tough loss for Putnam County’s boys, who fought hard against one of the best teams in Class A Division I.
“The boys’ game was tough. We went to Rome, and the team we faced was really talented,” Keiser said. “They could win the state. I’m just proud of the guys for making it to state. It was good for the team to compete against that caliber of an opponent. I’m excited about what we have coming back, and we will be ready to get better for next year.”
Putnam County’s boys also secured third place in the region after the regular season. They will lose senior Charlie Williams but will return Leland Erickson, Robert Thomas, Carlos Jimenez, William Puckett, Owen Kersey, and Braxton Sestak.
Despite two first-round exits, Keiser said he’s excited for the future of the program.
“That’s what we compete for all year,” he said. “I’m fortunate that I have great athletes and even better individuals.”