(Photo by Jeff Hasselmann) Spencer junior Mackenzie Kabrick fires a forehand return Monday, May 12, 2008, during the Tigers' regional postseason match with Spirit Lake/Okoboji. [Order this photo]

The Spencer girls tennis team was knocked out of playoff contention in the first round of Class 1A Region 1 Team Tennis Tournament on Monday, falling to Lakes Conference champion Spirit Lake/Okoboji by score of 5-3 at River View Tennis Courts in Spencer.

"From top to bottom this was the best that we have played all year," head coach Brett Groen commented. "We gave Spirit Lake way more than what they had seen out of anyone in the conference."

The normally strong singles play of the Tigers was reduced to two victories from No. 2 Emily Wassom and No. 6 Holly McCloud, putting them in an early hole 4-2 heading into doubles play. "I could not be any more proud of the girls," Groen went on to say. "I sat back in amazement at times of our hustle and determination to win at all costs."

In doubles the Tigers earned a victory from the No. 1 duo of Hannah Maertens and Wassom by score of 6-4, 6-1 over Aubrey Kolegraff and Cassidy Clarity.

"We have come so close to beating the best team around, this should give us confidence heading into districts this Thursday," Groen added.