The Malibu girls tennis team suffered a heartbreaking 11-7 loss to Laguna Hills in the CIF Division III semifinals after defeating M.L. King 13-5 in the quarterfinals. Laguna Hills went on to win the CIF championship defeating Arroyo Grande, 10-8. It was the second straight year MHS lost in the semifinals to the eventual champion.
“Obviously, we are disappointed with the loss to Laguna Hills. Although we were down 1-5 after the first round, I still believed we could come back,” Malibu Coach Doug Olen said. “The girls gave it their all and we almost made it back. They showed heart and made me proud to be their coach.”
The Sharks (18-1) won a third consecutive Tri-Valley League title this past season. Senior Britta Mosser earned a third straight Tri-Valley League singles championship while teammates Raven Odian and Rachel Purewal won the TVL doubles championship.
“I’m extremely proud of the girls and pleased with their commitment and effort throughout the season,” Olen said. “Even though we didn’t accomplish our ultimate goal of winning the CIF championship, I’m so happy with how each and every one of the girls matured as a player and a person, and how they developed into a well-balanced, respected team with tremendous character.”
Mosser, Odian and Purewal will now compete in the CIF Individuals beginning this week.