It is expected to be a fun-filled and successful season on the Newtown High School girls’ tennis courts. Coming off a rebuilding campaign, Coach Maureen Maher’s squad has a wealth of returning talent combined with some strong newcomers.

Maher’s goal, in addition to an enjoyable slate for all, is for the Nighthawks to finish among the top four of five teams in the South-West Conference behind a large contingent of seniors. This includes returnees Sydney Bruno, Sophia Dutsar, Katherine Jarvis, Emma Lyddy, Jamie Rowan, Molly Tinkler, and Eren Weiss. A new senior to the team is Reese Lischuk.

The lineup features 19 players with a trio of returning juniors, three new juniors, a pair of returning sophomores, and three freshmen, including Emily Anderson, who is expected to slot into the starting lineup along with Lischuk.

Win or lose, there is nice chemistry in the fold and that, of course, counts for a victory in many ways.

“This is the nicest group of girls. From the tryouts they were cheering each other on so I’m excited. And we’ve got some talent in there,” Maher said. “They’re great teammates to each other, which is refreshing.”

The Newtown coach noted that each of the players gained great experience playing a rung above their level against more experienced counterparts last spring. That experience should translate to more wins this spring.

It all gets started Thursday, April 10 at Pomperaug of Southbury starting at 3:45 pm; the Hawks take on Weston in their home opener Monday, April 14 at 3:30.

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