Coming off a campaign in which it lost only to perennial powerhouse and South-West Conference champion Weston, the Newtown High School boys’ tennis team could be in for a title run of its own.

Nighthawk Coach Shawn Tierney’s lineup has 12 members led by senior captains Carter Briggs and Michael Berry. The team has a trio of juniors in Theo Anderson, George Eppers, and Liam Conlin; four sophomores A.J. Singh, Frankie Canizzo, Ryan Hislop, and Cam Linnetz; and three freshmen Finn Clancy, Aarav Shetty, and Atley Ammerman.

“This year we really think we have a shot at the SWC championship. We are anchored by the two sophomore returning all-conference standouts. A.J. and Frankie will play 1 and 2 singles. Aarav is a freshman and looks like he will hold down the third singles position. The fourth slot will probably be filled by committee, mostly Theo and Ryan. The two seniors will lead the 1 and 2 doubles teams with help from George, Finn, Liam, and Cam,” Tierney said.

The Nighthawks were scheduled to get the regular season started with matches April 2 and 3 (weather permitting) and will be home Friday, April 5, to take on New Fairfield at 3:30 pm.

“We have not played a match yet, but I feel we have a stronger top-ten group of players than last year. We lost four starting players, but with the additions of the freshmen and improved play of the returning players, I’m looking forward to seeing how this year’s team progresses,” Tierney said.

Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.