Sydni Ratliff’21 ready for a hard-fought match.(Sarah Neltner’20/Media)

The Vikes gained some momentum this past week after winning a few statement matches over some longtime rivals. CA continued its undefeated start so far this season, improving to 5-0. This team is determined to return to the state final four again this year.

The first win of the week came against a strong Worthington Christian squad on Tuesday, September 4. The Warriors believed they would be up for the challenge of playing one of the best teams in the state. The Vikes quickly gave them a reality check. Academy won the match overall 5-0, and all games had significant point margins. CA left no room for disputing that they were the better team. 

One of the biggest matches on the season for the Vikings arrived the next day, Wednesday, September 5. Echoing the past few district finals, Academy faced district powerhouse CSG. This match carried a lot of weight heading into the postseason, but CA recognized this and took care of business swiftly. Sydni Ratliff ‘21 was dominant at first singles, losing only one game. Senior captain Himaja Reddy also displayed complete control over her opponent, winning 6-0, 6-0 on second singles. The Vikes went on to win the match 4-1, and showed they are the team to beat in Columbus.

Columbus Academy looks to continue its winning streak this week when it takes on a divisional opponent, Whitehall, on Tuesday, September 11, and some huge division one talent at Dublin Coffman and Dublin Jerome on Wednesday, September 12, and Thursday, September 13, respectively.