ALBIA — From throwback basketball uniforms to headbands and do-rags.
There’s a definitive style about the Albia High School boys tennis team.
The Blue Demons are living up to that style on the court so far this season. Albia followed up a season-opening 8-1 South Central Conference dual win over Chariton on Thursday with a 7-2 win over Oskaloosa in their home opener, closing out the day with three wins in doubles play.
“You kind of have a chip on your shoulder when you’re having fun out there,” Albia head boys tennis coach Carter Isley said. “There are a lot of people that put pressure on their shoulders. That’s when you tighten up. When you’re out there playing loose, laughing and having fun, that’s when you play your best.”
Albia faced a true challenge on Saturday at the Knoxville Invitational, finishing in a tie for sixth with the Panthers. Pella Christian won the team title with 25 points, topping Saydel by seven, North Polk by nine and Oskaloosa by 15.
“At the end of the day, win or lose, the boys are still smiling,” Isley said. “Even if we lose, the boys are out there trying to get better. As long as they’re smiling while doing it, that’s all that counts.”
Albia returns to South Central Conference action on Tuesday with a dual at Davis County.
