Rising to New Heights: SCA Varsity Tennis Makes History at the 2025 State Tournament

The 2025 season was a milestone year for the St. Catherine of Siena Academy Varsity Tennis Team, and the Stars truly shone on the state’s biggest stage. After qualifying for the State Tournament with an impressive second place finish at the Greenhills Regional on May 14, the team arrived in Midland ready to compete with grit, grace, and heart.

On Friday, May 30, the team opened play strong, with senior Sabrina Alstott notching the first point for SCA in a grueling three-set victory over a tough opponent from Grand Rapids North Point Christian. That win set the tone, and by the end of Day 1, four of the team’s eight flights had advanced to Saturday’s semifinals, with SCA sitting in fourth place overall and tallying 15 points—just one point shy of last year’s final total.

With seeded players in six of eight flights, the team showcased the depth and talent it has built over the years. Among the standout moments: both #1 Doubles (juniors Julia Ivezaj and Stephanie Lisch) and #2 Doubles (freshman Loren Nafso and senior Lily Wolocko) earned spots in the State Finals. Julia and Stephanie overcame their rivals from Notre Dame Prep before falling to Greenhills in a tough championship match.

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But the true highlight came from Loren and Lily, who not only earned a Regional title but went on to defeat Greenhills for a second time this season, clinching the first-ever State Championship for individual players in SCA Tennis history. Their achievement marks a new chapter of excellence for the Stars.

Although one flight fell short of points on Day 1, their teammates know just how crucial every match is. In a sport where margins are razor-thin, the team celebrated their best finish ever at the State Tournament—fourth place, a testament to their growth, perseverance, and unity.

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A Legacy Built Together: The Coaching Team Behind the Stars

Much of the team’s success can be traced back to the outstanding leadership of Head Coach Judy Hehs, who also serves as Principal at St. Catherine of Siena Academy. With 38 seasons of coaching experience, Judy has built a legacy of excellence that blends elite competition with character formation. Now in her sixth year leading the SCA Tennis program, she has guided the Stars to five consecutive CHSL Championships and State Tournament qualification every year since 2021. This season, her efforts were recognized once again with the Regional Coach of the Year award—adding to a remarkable list of accolades, including six State Championships, 14 Regional titles, and 19 Top-10 State finishes.

But behind every great head coach is a strong support team, and SCA is blessed with an exceptional one. Assistant Coach Don McCartney has been a gift to the program for the past four years, bringing decades of coaching and teaching experience to the court. His calm presence, technical expertise, and steady encouragement have made a lasting impact on the players and the program’s culture. The team also benefits from the wisdom of former SCA Tennis Coach Rick Hermann, who continues to assist during the program’s three biggest tournaments—including the Catholic League Championship and State Finals—providing continuity, strategy, and tradition. And when the team needed an extra hand at Regionals, Dean of Students Mr. Dan Bumpus didn’t hesitate to step in and support, embodying the all-in spirit of the SCA community.

Judy’s coaching philosophy, combined with the collective wisdom and commitment of her coaching team, teaches far more than tennis. Together, they cultivate discipline, teamwork, integrity, and the courage to compete. Their players grow into confident, faith-filled young women prepared to lead both on and off the court.

With a historic finish, a championship-winning duo, and a powerful team of mentors at the helm, the future of SCA Tennis is brighter than ever. Congratulations to our Varsity Tennis Team on a remarkable season—you’ve made school history, and we couldn’t be prouder!