By Teddy Rydquist

Leader Sports Writer

After opening its season with an 8-0 win over the Goodrich Martians on August 22, the Oxford Wildcat boys tennis team was able to keep its momentum rolling.

Hosting the Anchor Bay Tars in a non-conference matchup on Aug. 27, the Wildcats swept the doubles flights in a 7-1 victory.

“Hard-fought singles wins by (seniors) Hayden Durant and Cameron Mumbrue,” said Head Coach Ryan Ruzziconi.

“Also, good doubles wins by (brothers) Dane and Silas VonAllmen and (junior) Gabe Smith and (sophomore) Chase Maier.”

Paired together in the top doubles flight, the VonAllmen brothers have yet to lose this season and are establishing themselves as one of the top duos in the Oakland Activities Association.

The second of three consecutive match days, Oxford hosted the Lapeer Lightning on Aug. 28.

Hailing from the Saginaw Valley League, the Lightning did not fare well as Oxford cruised to an 8-0 win.

With all four of his singles matches being decided in two quick sets, Ruzziconi made sure to recognize the job of his singles players. “Strong wins by (seniors) Durant, Brock Heilig, Trevor Wallace and Mumbrue,” he said.

Being able to pencil in four seniors in his singles matches gives Ruzziconi experience and depth that has played a large role in this team’s undefeated start.

Another Saginaw Valley League opponent, the Davison Cardinals met an identical 8-0 fate on Aug. 29.

The VonAllmen brothers were pushed to the limit in this one against Robert Walker and Andrew Meikle, but were able to overcome a first set loss and win, 2-6, 6-3, 10-7.

“Good to move to 4-0! Tough wins by our top two doubles teams led the way,” Ruzziconi offered post-match.

Smith and Maier were able to close their match in two sets, 7-5, 6-1.

The Davison match also represented the Wildcats’ first action away from their home court this season. Being able to win on the road will be paramount for this team as back-to-back road trips await them. Oxford heads to Lake Orion on Wednesday, Sept. 4 and Royal Oak on Thursday, Sept. 5.

Lake Orion will be a nice test to begin league play and Royal Oak will offer some of the Wildcats’ top competition in the OAA Blue.