Feature photo by: Ayden Clayton- Justina Koukeokingthale stands by the Rangeview Tennis nets during her sixth period class. Koukeokingthale is the captain for the Raiders varsity Tennis team.
For anyone who knows tennis, you most likely know of Rangeview’s athlete Justina Koukeokingthale. Koukeokingthale is a four year varsity tennis player at Rangeview. She immediately started at the top and stayed there ever since she’s been with the Raiders.
Koukeokingthale started playing volleyball in the seventh grade and succeeded in the sport ever since.
“Justina is playing very well and you can tell the work she put in this off season is paying off,” said Coach Emmer. “There were times last year were she lost a couple of matches and her confidence went down, but this year she’s winning those matches and her confidence is growing as the year goes on.“
With Koukeokingthale’s season already going well after the girls won the EMAC championship against Vista Peak, Overland, and Hinkley, she reflects on how the season is treating her so far, with their 65-18 record.
“The most exciting thing about this season so far has been the competition of the teams we’ve played,” said Koukeokingthale. “ I’m also really excited for state because I know I’m very prepared because of the help of my teammates and Coach Emmer.”
Justina has been a captain for the varsity team for the past two years.Many of Koukeokingthale’s teammates and friends say she may be one of the best players on the team and even in the state.
“Justina is a team leader and everybody knows it,” said Junior Bolu Folarin. “She’s a captain and you can tell with how smooth and effortless she plays the game, she’s truly a freak of nature in the sport.”
The season for Koukeokingthale and the rest of the team has been great with them just barely missing the chance for state.The girls fell short this year just missing the swing at state, ending the season at 65-18 at regionals.
“I believe we’ve had our best shot at regionals and state in a while,” Emmer exclaimed. “We have really been playing our best tennis of the year, but now I know we have to work towards advancing next year.”
To get a recap on the girls season and stats, check out their MaxPreps page for further information at maxpreps.com .
